HB 247 – Border security and property taxes

HB 247 is the enabling legislation for HJR 34. It protects borderland property owners from being unfairly taxed when they allow the state or federal government to place security infrastructure on their land. Without this amendment, improvements like fencing or surveillance towers could raise a property’s appraised value, causing higher property tax bills for landowners who are simply helping with public safety. The bill respects private property rights by ensuring the government doesn’t punish these property owners with increased taxes. It promotes taxpayer fairness and avoids creating disincentives for cooperating with law enforcement. By shielding these owners from unintended financial burdens, the resolution aligns with principles of limited, fair, and respectful governance, and border security efforts.