Senator Bettencourt champions House Bill 1244 to protect Texas land tax benefits

Texas landowners will soon benefit from enhanced property ownership flexibility following the Texas Senate's unanimous passage of House Bill 1244 during the session on May 9, 2025. This legislation allows landowners who have qualified their land for open space appraisal to restructure their property ownership, such as transferring it to a limited liability company (LLC), without losing valuable tax benefits.

Senator Bettencourt, who championed the bill, emphasized that the measure aims to preserve the integrity of Texas land stewardship practices. By enabling landowners to maintain their open space appraisal status despite changes in ownership structure, the bill addresses concerns that technical ownership changes could jeopardize tax benefits for families and individuals managing the land.

The Senate moved swiftly to pass the bill, suspending the intent calendar and regular order of business to expedite its consideration. With a vote of 31 in favor and none against, the bill was approved for final passage, reflecting strong bipartisan support.

This legislative action is expected to provide significant relief to Texas landowners, ensuring that they can continue to benefit from open space appraisals while adapting their property ownership structures to meet modern needs. The implications of this bill are particularly relevant for families looking to preserve their land for future generations while navigating the complexities of property management in Texas.