Proposition 1: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization for less than the market value of the residence homestead and harmonizing certain related provisions of the Texas Constitution.”

Opponents say that this amendment would raise property taxes, and the state should instead focus on lowering everyone’s property taxes.

Proposition 2: “The constitutional amendment to establish a lower amount for expenses that can be charged to a borrower and removing certain financing expense limitations for a home equity loan, establishing certain authorized lenders to make a home equity loan, changing certain options for the refinancing of home equity loans, changing the threshold for an advance of a home equity line of credit, and allowing home equity loans on agricultural homesteads.”

Opponents say that the amendment would overhaul and remove certain constitutional provisions that were very specifically negotiated 20 years ago when home equity loans were initially implemented.

This amendment is very detailed and could potentially have a significant impact on Texas homeowners. For more information, check out this article.

Proposition 3: “The constitutional amendment limiting the service of certain officeholders appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate after the expiration of the person’s term of office.”

Opponents say that this amendment would leave many unfilled vacancies for important offices, and the governor already has flexible power to fill vacancies will qualified persons.

Proposition 4: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to require a court to provide notice to the attorney general of a challenge to the constitutionality of a state statute and authorizing the legislature to prescribe a waiting period before the court may enter a judgment holding the statute unconstitutional.”

Opponents say that voters should be able to have immediate relief from Texas laws that are ruled unconstitutional without delay. For example, laws that are deemed by the courts to restrict voting rights are very time-sensitive.

Proposition 5: “The constitutional amendment on professional sports team charitable foundations conducting charitable raffles.”

Opponents say that this measure would expand gambling in Texas, and there will be less protections from the creation of entities solely to take advantage of charity raffles.

Proposition 6: “The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a first responder who is killed or fatally injured in the line of duty.”

Opponents say that this amendment would raise property taxes, and the state should instead focus on lowering everyone’s property taxes.

Proposition 7: “The constitutional amendment relating to legislative authority to permit credit unions and other financial institutions to award prizes by lot to promote savings.”

Opponents say that this amendment provides favoritism for traditional financial institutions by allowing the only non-charitable raffle in Texas for a specific industry.