Texas Lawmakers Push for Property Tax Relief: What You Need to Know
If you own a home in Texas, chances are you’ve felt the squeeze of rising property taxes. It’s a common concern for many families, and lawmakers are taking notice. Recent legislative efforts are aimed at giving homeowners some much-needed breathing room by reducing property tax burdens across the state. But what exactly is being proposed, and how might it impact your tax bill?
Let’s break it down in plain English so you can feel more confident about what’s happening and what it means for you.
Why Texas Property Taxes Are a Big Deal
Unlike some other states, Texas does not collect a state income tax. That means property taxes play a major role in funding public schools, emergency services, infrastructure, and local government budgets. The downside? Many homeowners see property tax bills that rise year after year, especially as home values increase.
The Texas Comptroller explains that your property tax bill is based on two things: the appraised value of your home and the tax rates set by local taxing entities. Even if your rate stays the same, a higher appraisal can still mean a bigger bill. (Learn more about property tax basics).
What Lawmakers Are Doing About It
Governor Greg Abbott and several state legislators have introduced bills designed to provide relief for Texas homeowners. One key proposal involves increasing the homestead exemption—the portion of a home’s value that is exempt from taxation. By raising this exemption, the taxable value of your home could be reduced, potentially lowering your annual property tax bill.
There are also discussions around capping how much school districts can raise taxes each year, offering new tax credits, and providing additional transparency around how tax rates are set and how they affect homeowners. (You can follow these bills on Texas Legislature Online.)
These ideas are still working their way through the legislative process, but they share one common goal: making it easier for Texans to afford staying in their homes without being overwhelmed by rising costs.
What This Means for You
If passed, these changes could make a real difference in your household budget. For example, increasing the homestead exemption could knock hundreds off your tax bill each year. For retirees or families on fixed incomes, this kind of savings can be especially meaningful.
Of course, tax policy is rarely simple. While these reforms aim to benefit homeowners, they may come with trade-offs—like shifting the tax burden elsewhere or reducing funding for certain local services. It’s important to stay informed and understand both the benefits and potential downsides.
Navigating Property Tax Changes with Confidence
Even with new legislation in the works, property taxes are just one piece of your overall financial picture. If you’re unsure how proposed changes could affect your situation, Powell Tax Law is here to help.
We work with individuals and families every day to make sense of tax law—from rising property taxes to larger concerns about IRS debt or changing regulations. Whether you're seeking potential savings or just want to understand your options, we’ll walk you through it clearly and confidently.
Contact us here with your questions or to schedule a consultation. We’re ready to help you stay informed, prepared, and supported—no matter what comes next.
