H.B. No. 1688 proposes a local option exemption from ad valorem taxation for the residence homesteads of certain eligible peace officers in Texas. The bill amends Section 11.13 of the Tax Code to include a new definition for "eligible peace officer," specifying that it refers to individuals employed full-time as peace officers by the state or its political subdivisions. Additionally, the bill allows taxing units to adopt an exemption for these peace officers' residence homesteads, either as a specified dollar amount or as a percentage of the appraised value, provided that the governing body of the taxing unit follows the required legal procedures.

The bill also modifies existing provisions regarding the assessment and collection of taxes, allowing assessors to disregard certain exemptions when a taxing unit has pledged taxes for debt payment. The changes include the addition of the new exemption category (Subsection (s)) and the definition of eligible peace officers (Subdivision (1-a)). The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, contingent upon the approval of a related constitutional amendment by voters during the 89th Legislature's Regular Session in 2025. If the amendment is not approved, the act will have no effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Tax Code 11.13, Government Code 403.302 (Government Code 403, Tax Code 11)