The Ways & Means committee of the Texas House of Representatives is set to host a hearing this morning discussing property tax reforms, including looking at the impact of 2019's Senate Bill 2.
Senate Bill 2 had major impacts on how local governments set property tax rates, capping increases of the maintenance and operations portion of municipal property tax rates to 3.5% unless approved by voters. Previously, an increase over 8% could trigger an election, though that also required a petition to be submitted requesting an election.
Critics of the law have said it reduced local control over setting tax rates. Some cities have complained that having to call an election if the rate exceeds the new cap causes the budgeting process to be rushed.
However, supporters say it has helped keep taxes low and has given more control to voters. The law has already had impacts on Amarillo. In 2021, Amarillo City Council set a rate above this cap, but that rate was defeated by voters at the ballot box.
Those looking to participate in the hearing can find more information by downloading the hearing notice below. The hearing is scheduled to begin at 11:00 am.