The bill amends various sections of the Texas Tax Code to clarify the eligibility criteria for land appraisal based on productivity value for ad valorem tax purposes. It repeals specific provisions related to eligibility and additional tax consequences for land designated for agricultural use, particularly removing references to Subchapters C and D that previously governed certain appraisal processes. The new language specifies that landowners are entitled to have their land designated for agricultural use if they intend to use it for agriculture as a business venture for profit. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and requirements for "qualified open-space land" and "wildlife management," ensuring that land used for wildlife management can qualify for appraisal under the updated standards.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of notifying landowners about changes in appraisal eligibility, especially for those aged 65 and older, and mandates that notices related to property appraisals be sent via certified mail. It establishes new requirements for property owners regarding protests of appraised values and changes in land use, ensuring they are informed of their rights and the processes involved. The effective date of the bill is set for January 1, 2027, contingent upon the approval of a related constitutional amendment by voters; if the amendment is not approved, certain provisions of the bill will not take effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Tax Code 23.20, Tax Code 23.42, Tax Code 23.51, Tax Code 23.52, Tax Code 23.524, Tax Code 23.551, Tax Code 31.01, Tax Code 41.44, Agriculture Code 60.022, Property Code 21.0421, The following provisions of the Tax Code 23.46 (Tax Code 31, Tax Code 41, Property Code 21, Tax Code 23, Agriculture Code 60, The following provisions of the Tax Code 23)