Tax assessor-collectors have worked diligently throughout the years to be a trusted resource for lawmakers as they consider new legislation. As the role of tax assessor-collectors is unique, they are qualified to offer their expertise on a multitude of issues, always with the goal of highlighting the impact certain legislation will have on their constituents, Texas taxpayers. With so many unknowns heading into this legislative session, members of the Tax Assessor-Collectors Association of Texas (TACA) prepared for a session like none other.
This session, major changes were made to many of the functions of the tax office. The list below includes a few of the many pieces of legislation passed during the legislative session that will impact tax offices and taxpayers:
Motor Vehicle Legislation
- Senate Bill 876 changed the law regarding processes for vehicle title and registrations. Under current law, processing occurs by the county tax assessor-collector where the owner is domiciled, where the motor vehicle is purchased, or where the purchaser resides. Beginning in March 2022, tax assessor-collectors will have the discretion to accept vehicle title and registration transactions from any county at their discretion.
- House Bill 2152 made changes to the timeframe an individual is allowed to renew their registration online.
Voter Registration Legislation
- Senate Bill 1 from the second special legislative session made changes to the voter registration process and requirements for voter registrars in Texas.
Property Tax Legislation
- House Bill 2723 created a central database through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts to refer constituents to regarding their local property tax rates.
- Senate Bill 742 allows a county to authorize installment payments on property taxes in a disaster area and establishes specific criteria a business must meet in order to qualify.
TACA was largely successful in working with lawmakers on items included in their legislative platform and has already begun working with stakeholders and legislators on issues for the next legislative session.
By Ronnie Keister, Lubbock County Tax Assessor-Collector
Katy Estrada, TAC Legislative Manger, contributed to this article.