H.B. No. 2559 amends the Local Government Code to establish new procedures for municipalities imposing a moratorium on property development. The bill requires municipalities to hold two public hearings on any proposed moratorium, with the second hearing occurring no sooner than 30 days after the first. Additionally, it mandates that the governing body must make a final determination on the moratorium within 12 days after the second hearing, ensuring that the ordinance receives at least two readings spaced 28 days apart and is approved by a three-fourths majority of the governing body. The bill also specifies that a moratorium will expire 90 days after adoption unless extended through a public hearing and written findings.

Furthermore, the bill repeals certain provisions related to temporary moratoriums and commercial property, streamlining the process for municipalities. It clarifies that a municipality cannot adopt a new moratorium on the same type of property or geographical area until two years after the previous moratorium has expired. The changes aim to enhance transparency and public participation in the moratorium process while ensuring that municipalities can effectively address development issues. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 212.134, Local Government Code 212.1362 (Local Government Code 212)
House Committee Report: Local Government Code 212.134, Local Government Code 212.1362 (Local Government Code 212)
Engrossed: Local Government Code 212.134, Local Government Code 212.1362 (Local Government Code 212)
Senate Committee Report: Local Government Code 212.134, Local Government Code 212.1362 (Local Government Code 212)
Enrolled: Local Government Code 212.134, Local Government Code 212.1362 (Local Government Code 212)