Voters in Texas will have the chance to modify the state constitution in 14 different ways on November 7. Black voters must comprehend the significance of each amendment and its potential effects on their neighborhoods, as Deputy Secretary of State Joe Esparza just drafted the ballot order for these issues.
Our communities are the targets of several of these amendments. Some of the possible changes brought about by these amendments include property tax exemptions, which might make housing more affordable, as well as improvements to healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Take the time to read each proposal and think about how it relates to our community’s objectives and needs.
The following is an analysis of each statement in great detail:
I propose that HJR 126 be
Traditional American occupations including farming, ranching, woodworking, gardening, and wildlife management are safeguarded by this amendment.
Effect: Rural areas and agricultural enterprises could benefit from the constitutional protection of agricultural and wildlife management operations.
Hypothesis 2: SJR 64
Declares a municipal option for a child care facility’s assessed value of real estate to be free from property taxes, in whole or in part.
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Effect: Childcare centers may find it easier to run their businesses, which might help families save money and allow more parents to work.
Third Hypothesis: HJR 132
Against the implementation of a wealth or net worth tax on individuals.
Impact: It shields people from paying taxes on their wealth as a whole, which could be good for their long-term savings and investments.
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The fourth proposition is the Second Special Session of HJR 2.
Raises the homestead exemption from $40,000 to $100,000 and gives the legislature the power to temporarily cap the maximum value of non-residential real property for tax purposes.
Impact: Homeowners, especially those with disabilities or advanced age, may see substantial tax relief as a result of this.
Conclusion No. 5: HJR no.
Linked to the Texas University Fund, an endowment that helps select Texas colleges and universities grow into top research institutions in the country.
Effect: It backs the expansion of Texas’s top research universities, which might improve the state’s educational offerings and spur economic growth.
Suggestion No. 6: SJR 75
The Texas Water Fund is established to aid in the financing of water projects.
Possible effect: the state’s water supply problems could be alleviated by better water infrastructure and management of resources.
Suggestion No. 7: SJR 1994
Establishes a statewide energy fund to back electric power plants in Texas.
Effect: Assists in building and updating electric facilities, which improves the sustainability and reliability of energy.
Issue No. 8: HJR 125–
Establishes a fund for the improvement of broadband infrastructure with the goal of increasing the availability of high-speed broadband.
The expansion of broadband connection has the potential to improve educational and economic possibilities by bridging the digital divide, particularly in underprivileged places.
Proposition: HJR 2 (Consistent Meeting)
Gives the Texas legislature the green light to boost the retirement benefits of some Teachers Retirement System annuitants by accounting for inflation.
Retired teachers are helped by this program, which guarantees them financial security by modifying their pensions to match the cost of living.
Statement number ten: SJR 87
Equipment and inventory owned by manufacturers of medical or biological products can be excluded from property taxes according to this act.
This can reduce medical product prices by bolstering the healthcare network and medical supply chain.
Issue No. 11: SJR 32
El Paso County’s conservation and reclamation districts can now use property taxes to finance bond sales for park and recreation facility improvements, thanks to this bill.
The improved recreational and green areas have a positive effect on the health and happiness of the population.
Proposition: HJR 130
This bill would do away with the position of county treasurer in the county of Galveston.
Possible reduction in administrative expenses as a result of streamlining county government processes is one possible impact.
Proposition: HJR A107
Justices and judges of the state are required to retire at an earlier age.
Potentially improves the effectiveness and efficiency of the legal system by extending the terms of serving judges with extensive experience.
With proposition fourteen, Supreme Court Rule seven-four
Establishes a state park development and improvement fund to be known as the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund.
Effect: Helps fund the building and upkeep of state parks, which in turn encourages people to enjoy outdoor spaces while also protecting the environment.
Juniper Calloway is a dedicated journalist with 3 years of experience in covering hard-hitting stories. Known for her commitment to delivering timely and accurate updates, she currently works with MikeandJon Podcast, where she focuses on reporting critical topics such as crime, local news, and national developments across the United States. Her ability to break down complex issues and keep audiences informed has established her as a trusted voice in journalism.
