AUSTIN (Nexstar) — Senior citizens and disabled Texans may soon see major relief from property taxes, following a decisive vote in the Texas Senate on Wednesday. Senate Bill 23, authored by Senator Paul Bettencourt, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in a 30-1 vote.
The bill proposes increasing the additional homestead exemption for homeowners aged 65 and older or those with disabilities from $10,000 to $60,000. When paired with the general homestead exemption increase from $100,000 to $140,000 under the recently approved Senate Bill 4, qualifying homeowners could benefit from a combined $200,000 in exemptions.
“This is a game changer,” said Lt. Governor Dan Patrick in a statement. “It’s a bold, compassionate move that brings real financial relief to those who need it most.”
According to legislative analysts, the enhanced exemption would eliminate school property taxes entirely for a majority of senior and disabled homeowners with homes valued at $200,000 or less. Currently, about 45% of these individuals pay no school property taxes. Under SB 23, that number is projected to rise to 90%.
To implement the plan, lawmakers must also pass Senate Joint Resolution 85, a constitutional amendment required to authorize the change. If approved by the Texas House, the amendment will appear on the November 2025 ballot for voters to decide.
If the amendment is ratified, the increased exemption would apply retroactively to the 2025 tax year. The combined effect of SB 23, SB 4, and accompanying tax rate compression measures in Senate Bill 1 is expected to save the average senior or disabled homeowner nearly $951 annually.
Supporters of the legislation say it’s a vital step in protecting vulnerable Texans from being taxed out of their homes. The proposal now heads to the Texas House for consideration. If passed, voters will have the final say in November.
“This is about dignity, fairness, and common sense,” Senator Bettencourt said on the Senate floor. “And it’s long overdue.”