The November 7 election holds significant importance, as it features 14 ballot propositions aiming to amend the Texas Constitution, each approved by the Texas Legislature earlier this year. The Chamber advocates for a pro-business environment and provides a strong, representative voice on behalf of all businesses on important local, regional, state and federal issues. We support and ask you to VOTE YES on the following proposed constitutional amendments: 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 7, and early voting is open Monday, October 23 to Friday, November 3. For more information on voting locations and schedules for both early voting and Election Day, please visit the Tarrant County website HERE. For more detailed look at each proposition, you can view explainers for each on Ballotpedia.
Proposition 2 – Property Tax Exemption for Child Care Facilities: In response to the challenges faced by childcare businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, Proposition 2 authorizes cities and counties to exempt childcare facilities from property taxes. This exemption is expected to provide financial relief to these facilities, which play a crucial role in supporting working families and the economy.
Proposition 4 – Property Tax Reforms: Property taxes have long been a concern in Texas, and Proposition 4 offers potential relief. It includes tax cuts for school districts and limits on property value increases for certain properties. If approved, it could provide much-needed property tax relief for homeowners and businesses.
Proposition 5 – Texas University Fund: Proposition 5 seeks to rename and expand the National Research University Fund to the Texas University Fund. This fund will receive interest income from Texas’ rainy day fund to support research at state universities outside the UT and A&M systems. It’s a move to boost research and drive economic growth in Texas.
Proposition 6 – Texas Water Fund: The creation of a Texas water fund is proposed to finance water projects, addressing critical issues like aging infrastructure and water conservation. This fund could be a vital step in securing a sustainable water supply for Texas.
Proposition 7 – Texas Energy Fund: Proposition 7 aims to create a Texas energy fund supporting the construction and maintenance of natural gas-fueled power plants.
Proposition 8 – Broadband Infrastructure Fund: In an effort to expand high-speed broadband access, Proposition 8 would allocate funds to develop and finance broadband and telecommunications services. This is especially critical given the digital divide in Texas.
Proposition 9 – Teacher Retirement System Adjustment: Proposition 9 deals with cost-of-living adjustments for retired Texas teachers. If approved, it would provide raises to some retired teachers, addressing a long-standing concern.
Proposition 10 – Exemption for Medical Manufacturers: Proposition 10 proposes an exemption from property taxes for equipment and inventory held by medical or biomedical product manufacturers. The goal is to strengthen the medical supply chain and grow a critical opponent of our economy.
The Chamber has taken no stance on the following proposed constitutional amendments. We do, however, encourage each voter to be informed going into the voting booth.
Proposition 1 – Protecting Farming and Ranching Rights: Proposition 1 aims to safeguard the rights of farmers, ranchers, and other landowners in Texas. It raises the bar for state and local regulation of agricultural practices, ensuring that such regulations must be supported by evidence of public safety concerns. This proposition is seen as a way to shield farmers and ranchers from undue municipal encroachment while allowing necessary regulations for preserving natural resources and animal health. Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller emphasizes that this amendment will protect the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers.
Proposition 3 – Prohibition of Wealth or Net Worth Tax: Proposition 3 addresses the issue of potential wealth taxes, prohibiting the imposition of an individual wealth or net worth tax in Texas. Supporters believe that wealth taxes discourage business and may result in decreased overall wealth and investment. Critics argue that such taxes would have minimal impact on the wealthy and could fund essential programs.
Proposition 11 – Parks and Recreational Facilities in El Paso County: This proposition aims to allow conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County to issue bonds supported by property taxes for recreational development. It has sparked debates about potential tax increases.
Proposition 12 – Abolishing the County Treasurer Office in Galveston County: Proposition 12 seeks to abolish the office of the county treasurer in Galveston County. This move has implications for county governance and finances, with supporters emphasizing potential cost savings.
Proposition 13 – Retirement Age for State Judges: Voters will decide whether to increase the mandatory retirement age for state judges from 75 to 79. Advocates argue that it would reduce judicial turnover and keep experienced judges on the bench.
Proposition 14 – Centennial Parks Conservation Fund: The final proposition, Proposition 14, would create a centennial parks conservation fund to enhance state parks in Texas. This initiative aims to address the need for increased park acreage and investment in the state’s park system.
Voting is a fundamental pillar of a democratic society, as it allows us to shape the future of our community and Texas. Each of these propositions represents an opportunity for you to have your voices heard. As a reminder, early voting is open from October 23 to November 3, and Election Day is on Tuesday, November 7. Make sure to participate and make a difference in the future of Texas.