Texas Gov. Greg Abbott unveiled a new property tax relief plan that could change how much homeowners pay across the state.
HOUSTON — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has unveiled a new property tax relief proposal that he says could help keep homeownership more affordable for families across the state, including many in the Houston area.
The plan, announced Tuesday, builds on the $51 billion tax relief package passed by state lawmakers during last year’s legislative session and aims to further reduce property tax burdens for homeowners.
Right now, Abbott says the proposal centers on eliminating school property taxes for homeowners, a move he says could save money for Texans who own homes.
What’s in Gov. Abbott’s property tax relief plan?
Abbott’s proposal outlines a five-point plan designed to limit property tax growth and give voters more control over increases.
Under the plan, local government spending growth would be limited to population growth plus inflation or 3.5%, whichever is lower.
The proposal would also require property tax increases to receive approval from two-thirds of voters.
Abbott also wants to allow voters to petition to place property tax rollbacks on the ballot.
Another part of the proposal would change how often properties are appraised. Abbott says properties should be appraised once every five years.
His plan also calls for lowering the cap on homestead appraisal growth to just 3% for all properties.
Abbott pushes lawmakers to support plan
During remarks about the proposal, Abbott challenged lawmakers from both parties to support the plan.
“I defy any Democrat or any Republican to come out against my law that will slash property taxes and look their fellow Texans in the eye and say they are not going to adopt Abbott’s plan to reduce and slash property taxes in Texas. And what about Haven’t haven’t heard about that yet. We’ll get to them after we get to the house.”
The governor says the proposal would continue the effort to reduce property tax burdens following last year’s major tax relief package.
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