The bill, S.B. No. 2493, aims to enhance the transparency and clarity of ballot propositions for bond elections held by political subdivisions in Texas. It establishes specific requirements for the content of the ballot, mandating that it includes a plain language description of the purposes for which the debt obligations are being authorized, the total principal amount, and a statement regarding the imposition of taxes to cover the principal and interest. Additionally, each purpose must be presented as a separate proposition, and political subdivisions with at least 250 registered voters are required to prepare a voter information document that details the ballot language, estimated costs, and other relevant financial information.
The bill also stipulates that the governing body of the political subdivision must identify major assumptions related to the financial estimates provided in the voter information document, such as debt amortization and projected changes in appraised values. Furthermore, political subdivisions with an internet presence are required to make this information accessible on their websites prior to the election. The bill will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.