The bill, S.B. No. 844, introduces new procedures for changes to zoning regulations or district boundaries in Texas. It adds Section 211.0061 to the Local Government Code, which outlines specific protest procedures for proposed changes initiated by property owners or municipalities that make residential development more restrictive. A protest must be signed by owners of at least 60 percent of the affected land area, and if such a protest occurs, the proposed change requires a three-fourths vote from the governing body for certain protests or a majority for others to take effect. Additionally, the bill transfers and amends existing language regarding the computation of land area for protests.

Further provisions include the introduction of Sections 211.0063 to 211.0069, which address notice requirements for other proposed changes, civil actions to compel municipalities to adopt changes, and the presumption of validity for less restrictive changes. The bill also allows individuals to submit complaints to the attorney general regarding violations of the new provisions, with penalties for municipalities that do not comply. Notably, Section 211.006(d) is repealed, and the changes will apply only to proposals made after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 211.006 (Local Government Code 211)