Abbott Seeks Fourth Term, Proposes Constitutional Ban on School Property Taxes

On November 9, Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared his intention to run for a fourth term, vowing to eliminate what he described as “out-of-control property taxes” in Texas by proposing a constitutional amendment aimed at abolishing school property taxes across the state.

Addressing his supporters at the East River 9 golf course in Houston, Abbott outlined his strategy to empower Texans regarding local government expenditures and to put an end to what he characterized as continuous tax increases. “We must put an end to local property tax increases once and for all,” Abbott stated.

The governor has unveiled a comprehensive six-part plan that includes a cap on annual appraisal increases at 3%, mandates property appraisals every five years rather than annually, and empowers residents to initiate petitions for elections aimed at reducing local tax rates. It would require a two-thirds majority of voters for any local tax hikes and impose statewide restrictions on local governments' annual spending.

Abbott's most contentious objective is the elimination of school property taxes, which account for over 50% of public school financing in Texas. For the change to happen, Abbott must amend the Texas Constitution, a process that requires the consent of two-thirds of the state legislature before it can be presented to the electorate. He did not detail how the state would compensate for lost revenue but mentioned that Texas’s robust economy could support further tax relief.

“One aspect of housing affordability challenges is the property taxes that Texans are required to pay,” Abbott stated. “Your local governments are continuously increasing property taxes.” ... We are set to shift the dynamics with local taxing authorities and empower the community.

According to the Tax Foundation, Texas ranks seventh nationally in property tax rates, at 1.36%. The state does not impose property taxes; instead, they are levied by local entities, including school districts, cities, and counties. The Legislature has the authority to impose limits on increases and set up exemptions.

Opponents, including Democrats and local leaders, contend that Abbott’s plan would severely impact public education financing and shift the financial burden to the state budget. Kendall Scudder, Chair of the Texas Democratic Party, criticized Abbott’s time in office, stating that Texans are “worse off” due to a “broken and unstable power grid” and the “defunding and closure of public neighborhood schools.”

Democrats Gina Hinojosa, Andrew White, Bobby Cole, and Nick Pappas are gearing up to take on Abbott in the 2026 elections. The Texas Secretary of State’s Office has announced that candidate filing for the March primaries commenced on November 8 and will continue until December 8.

Abbott concluded his address by energizing his supporters ahead of the 2026 election. “As proud Texans, we will show the world in 2026 that the spirit of Texas remains unyielding,” he stated.