TX HB5490

Elections to authorize general obligation bonds or approve ad valorem tax rate increases must be held on the November uniform election date and cannot be held as emergency elections

Political subdivisions may not issue general obligation bonds unless at least two-thirds of voters approve the issuance, changing from the current simple majority requirement (contingent on passage of related constitutional amendment)

Ad valorem tax rate increases above the voter-approval rate now require at least two-thirds voter approval instead of a simple majority to take effect

Public notice requirements are updated to reflect the two-thirds supermajority threshold, informing voters that unless two-thirds accept the proposed rate, the voter-approval tax rate will apply

The Act takes effect January 1, 2026, and applies only to elections ordered on or after that date; the bond supermajority provision is contingent on voter approval of a related constitutional amendment