Bill Caption

Relating to eligibility for the exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homestead of a totally disabled veteran. 

Fiscal Notes

Passage of the bill could increase the number of veterans who would be eligible for a total homestead property tax exemption. As a result, taxable property values could be reduced and the related costs to the Foundation School Fund could be increased through the operation of the school finance formulas. 

Bill Analysis

SB 794 would clarify language in Tax Code for disabled veterans who are exempted from taxation of the total appraised value of the veteran's residence homestead from "A disabled veteran who receives..." to "A disabled veteran who has been awarded..."

Vote Recommendation Notes

The language clarification in SB 794 would make it so that a disabled veteran who has been awarded 100% disability but has a portion of those funds withheld for outstanding obligations would still qualify for an exemption of property taxes. While we generally do not support carve-out in tax code that play favorites, this bill makes no new carve-outs or substantive changes. The bill merely aligns the statutory language with the purpose and intent of the tax exemption. Texas Action is neutral on SB 794.