State representative addresses Propositions 2 and 3 on constitutional amendments ballot

by PegNews wire

State Representative Allen Vaught (Dallas) has received reports of an email with misinformation concerning Propositions 2 and 3, which are constitutional amendments appearing on the November 3, 2009 ballot. These emails claim that if Propositions 2 and 3 are passed, they would create an additional statewide property tax.

Vaught wants the public to know that this information is not true. The State of Texas is constitutionally prohibited from assessing a tax on property. Neither proposition, if passed, would undo this prohibition or allow the state to assess a tax on property in the future.

“I would encourage everyone to research each of the 11 Propositions on the Nov. 3 ballot in order to make an informed decision when voting,” said Vaught.

Proposition 2, which passed on the House floor 142-0, would require appraisal districts to value a residence homestead based on its function as a home rather than on the property's highest and best use, such as commercial property. This would help stabilize residential appraisal values in rapid growth areas whose appraisals are skyrocketing due to commercial development occurring near their neighborhoods. This amendment only applies to those who qualify for the residential homestead exemption. The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property’s value as a residence homestead.”

Proposition 3, which also passed 142-0 in the House, would ensure uniform appraisal standards and procedures are applied consistently throughout the state. Currently, applications of appraisal methods differ in appraisal districts and there is no oversight of methodology or consistency. With state funding for public schools based on taxable property in each school district, it is important to ensure that property values are derived from the same procedures. The proposition will read: “The constitutional amendment providing for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for ad valorem tax purposes.”

For questions or concerns regarding the proposed constitutional amendments, contact the District 107 District office at 214-370-8305 or the Capitol office at 512-463-0244.

Source: State Representative Allen Vaught