Texas Senate Bans Local Guaranteed Income, OKs Tax Relief

The Texas Senate passed legislation to ban local governments from establishing guaranteed income programs such as Harris County's Uplift Harris, citing concerns over unconstitutional gifting of public funds, a move disputed by supporters of the programs. At the same time, the Senate approved measures to raise property tax exemptions for seniors and people with disabilities, which could save eligible homeowners about $950 annually and is expected to cost the state $1.2 billion. The property tax bills must still pass the Texas House and be approved by voters in a constitutional amendment election. Supporters argue the property tax relief will help vulnerable Texans remain in their homes, while critics of guaranteed income programs label them as 'lottery socialism.' The debate highlights Texas lawmakers' efforts to balance direct cash assistance with broader fiscal relief. Both initiatives reflect ongoing policy divides over the use of public funds for targeted assistance.