Texas State Representative Brian Harrison recently announced the filing of three new bills aimed at reforming local government bond and property tax policies. The proposals, outlined in a series of posts on July 14, 2025, focus on increasing requirements for passing bonds, limiting the frequency of bond proposals, and mandating the use of budget surpluses to reduce property taxes.
In a post made on July 14, 2025, Harrison stated: “All bonds are property tax increases. Proud to file HB50 to require a SUPERMAJORITY to pass a bond!” The proposed bill would increase the threshold needed for local governments to approve new bonds.
On the same day, Harrison introduced another proposal targeting repeat bond measures. He wrote: “Proud to file HB54 to require local governments to wait at least FIVE YEARS before trying to pass a bond that the voters already rejected!”
Additionally, Harrison addressed the use of surplus funds by local governments. In his third post from July 14, 2025, he stated: “Proud to file HB47 to force local governments to use any surplus to reduce property taxes! We must restore fiscal responsibility to local government.”
These legislative efforts come amid ongoing debates in Texas regarding property tax rates and fiscal management at the local level.
—
