Texas’s 2023 ballot measures: November’s must-knows.
The 2023 Elections: A November to Remember
The 2023 elections may not have the fireworks of 2024, but there is still plenty up for grabs. In this “off-year,” most of which takes place on Nov. 7, Virginia will be keenly watched, particularly by followers of Gov. Glenn Youngkin and whether he can springboard Republican success into national aspirations. Meanwhile, the governor’s mansion is up for grabs in Kentucky and Mississippi. New Jersey’s Republicans believe they have a real shot at turning the state red in legislative elections, while there are also fierce mayoral and district attorney battles throughout the United States. Voters will also decide several fascinating referendums, particularly in Ohio, Maine, and Texas. This Washington Examiner series, November to Remember, will dive into all of these and more over the following two weeks. Part eight will deal with Texas’s ballot questions.
Texans Decide the Future: 14 Conditional Amendments on the 2023 Ballot
Texans will have the opportunity to wield their voting power on Nov. 7 to determine the future of 14 conditional amendments on the 2023 ballot. These measures encompass an array of subjects, including more resources for higher education, expanding practices for farmers, increasing the age of retirement for state judges, and a number of taxation considerations.
To participate in the election, Texans must have registered to vote by Oct. 10, and voters have a few days left to vote before Election Day, with early voting running from Oct. 23 to Nov. 3.
Maine Ballot Questions Highlight Constitutional Rulings and State Infighting
Here are the most prominent ballot measures Texans will be voting on:
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Proposition 1 — Safeguarding farming and ranching practices
Proposition 1, the Right to Farming, Ranching, Timber Production, Horticulture, and Wildlife Management Amendment, would increase the threshold of state and local regulation of accepted farming and ranching practices. Proponents of the measure argue it would safeguard farmers and ranchers from regulations put in place by neighboring municipalities by preventing them from being sued for carrying out common farming operations and would clarify the scope of possible damages.
Opponents of the measure warn the wording of the amendment could be too broad and expands on an already harmful existing law, citing the “right to farm” statute passed in 1981.
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Proposition 3 — Prohibiting wealth and net worth tax
Proposition 3, the Prohibit Taxes on Wealth or Net Worth Amendment, would add a provision that bans the imposition of an individual wealth or net worth tax. The bill was approved by the Texas legislature in May.
The Texas American Federation of Teachers and Every Texan have both registered in opposition to the amendment.
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Proposition 5 — Texas University Fund
Proposition 5 would create the Texas University Fund, benefiting schools such as the University of Houston, Texas Tech University, University of North Texas, and Texas State University.
The fund would start with nearly $4 billion, which includes $3 billion investment from a surplus in the state legislature and $896 million from the state’s National Research University Fund.
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Proposition 13 — Increasing retirement age for state judges
Proposition 13, the Increase Mandatory Retirement Age for State Judges Amendment, seeks to raise the retirement age for state justices and judges. Currently, state judges must step down at 75, but this amendment would extend the mandatory retirement age to 79. The law would also increase the minimum retirement age from 70 to 75.
If passed, the additional four years would make Texas’s mandatory retirement age for judges the second highest in the country.
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Proposition 14 – Centennial Parks Conservation Fund
Proposition 14, Texas’s Creation of the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund Amendment, would create a fund designed to finance the creation and improvement of state parks in Texas. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Texas state parks, Proposition 14 would create a $1 billion fund without creating a new tax.
The Texas Coalition for State Parks, which consists of about 90 organizations, is leading the campaign in support of the measure.
Below is a quick breakdown of the other measures that will be on the ballot:
- Proposition 2 — Create local property tax exemptions for child care facilities, with proponents noting businesses have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
- Proposition 4 — Provide property tax relief by lowering what homeowners pay to school districts in property taxes and raising the homestead tax exemption from $40,000 to $100,000.
- Proposition 6 — Create a new $1 billion Texas Water Fund to fund projects, improve infrastructure, and address water loss.
- Proposition 7 — Establish the Texas Energy Fund to fund loans to upgrade or create gas-fueled power plants.
- Proposition 8 — Form broadband infrastructure to expand and improve high-speed internet projects.
- Proposition 9 — Allow cost-of-living adjustments for certain retired teachers by moving $3.3 billion in general funds into the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
- Proposition 10 — Exempt equipment of medical or inventory or biomedical product manufacturer from property taxes.
- Proposition 11 — Issue bonds supported by property taxes to be used to improve parks and recreational faculties. This measure is specific to El Paso County only, but it will appear on all state voters’ ballots.
- Proposition 12 — Abolish the Galveston County treasurer position, with supporters arguing it’s no longer a needed position and the money for the role could go back to taxpayers through county improvements. This measure is specific to Galveston County only, but it will appear on all state voters’ ballots.
How does Proposition 14 reflect the importance of outdoor recreation and environmental conservation in Texas and its commitment to protecting natural wonders
Th anniversary of the establishment of the State Parks System in Texas, this proposition aims to ensure the continued preservation and enhancement of these natural treasures for future generations.
Under Proposition 14, a dedicated fund would be established to provide financial resources for the maintenance, construction, and improvement of state parks. The fund would receive revenue from various sources, including sales tax revenue from sporting goods and cigarette sales, as well as donations and grants.
Proponents of the measure argue that the creation of the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund would provide much-needed funding for the upkeep and expansion of state parks, allowing Texans to continue enjoying the beauty and recreational opportunities these natural areas offer. They emphasize the importance of preserving Texas’ unique ecosystems and ensuring access to outdoor spaces for all residents.
Opponents, on the other hand, express concerns about the potential financial burden on taxpayers, arguing that the state should prioritize other areas of expenditure, such as education or infrastructure. They question the need for a dedicated fund and argue that existing revenue streams could be used instead to support state parks.
Regardless of the outcome, Proposition 14 symbolizes the significance of Texas’ state parks and their role in preserving the state’s natural heritage. It highlights the ongoing commitment of Texans to protect these natural wonders and underscores the importance of outdoor recreation and environmental conservation in the state.
In addition to the propositions discussed above, Texans will also be voting on several other ballot measures addressing topics such as property tax relief, constitutional amendments related to the judiciary, and changes to the state’s redistricting process.
As the November election approaches, it is crucial for Texans to educate themselves on the various ballot measures and their potential implications. These decisions will shape the future of the state and have a direct impact on the lives of Texans for years to come.
While the 2023 elections may not receive the same attention as the presidential race or the midterm elections, the outcomes of these local and state elections are equally significant. They provide an opportunity for citizens to exercise their democratic rights and influence the direction of their communities and institutions. By participating in the electoral process and making informed decisions, voters can ensure that their voices are heard and that their values and priorities are reflected in the policies and leadership of their state.
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