State Senator Phil King | The Senate of Texas Official Website
State Senator Phil King | The Senate of Texas Official Website
The Texas State Senate has been active this week, focusing on property tax relief and bail system reform. This activity coincided with Tarrant County Days at the Capitol, where many from Senate District 10 visited Austin.
The Senate approved significant property tax relief legislation, SB 4 and SJR 2. These bills propose increasing the current property tax exemption from $100,000 to $140,000. Seniors over 65 and disabled individuals would see an exemption of $150,000. The legislation now moves to the Texas House before a statewide constitutional election is held for voter approval.
Senate efforts also include maintaining "property tax compression," reducing school property taxes by using surplus funds. This initiative began in 2015 and continues to provide relief to homeowners and small businesses alike.
In criminal justice matters, four bills aimed at reforming the bail system have moved forward from committee discussions. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick emphasized bail reform as a priority, supported by Governor Abbott's designation of it as an emergency item during his address.
A key proposal is SJR 1, named "Jocelyn’s Law," which would amend the Texas Constitution to deny bail for undocumented immigrants accused of felonies.
Meanwhile, Congressman Roger Williams introduced the Operation Lone Star Reimbursement Act in Congress seeking reimbursement for Texas' border security expenditures from 2021-2025.
During Tarrant County Days at the Capitol, more than 140 residents engaged with officials in Austin. Judge Tim O’Hare participated in events on the Senate Floor while meetings were held with Fort Worth City Council members regarding legislative priorities amid rapid population growth.
Mayor Mattie Parker joined others in recognizing Tarrant County's presence at these events.
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