H.B. No. 247 introduces a new exemption from ad valorem taxation for real property located in counties that border the United Mexican States, specifically for the appraised value that arises from the installation or construction of border security infrastructure. The bill defines "border security infrastructure" to include various improvements designed to surveil or impede movement across the Texas-Mexico border. It establishes that property owners can receive a tax exemption if they have a qualified border security infrastructure agreement with the state or federal government, or if the improvements are made on land subject to a recorded easement for such purposes.

Additionally, the bill amends existing tax code provisions to ensure that the price paid by the state or federal government for purchasing property or easements for border security infrastructure cannot be considered when appraising other real property. This aims to prevent inflated property values due to government purchases for border security purposes. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2026, contingent upon the approval of a related constitutional amendment by voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Tax Code 11.43 (Tax Code 11)
House Committee Report: Tax Code 11.43, Tax Code 23.013 (Tax Code 11, Tax Code 23)
Engrossed: Tax Code 11.43, Tax Code 23.013 (Tax Code 11, Tax Code 23)
Senate Committee Report: Tax Code 11.43, Tax Code 23.013 (Tax Code 11, Tax Code 23)
Enrolled: Tax Code 11.43, Tax Code 23.013 (Tax Code 11, Tax Code 23)