Speaker Tom Craddick (R - Midland), yesterday, announced the formation of the Select Committee on Property Tax Relief and Appraisal Reform, which will oversee all matters relating to property tax relief and reforming the property appraisal system. Rep. John Otto (R - Dayton) will chair the committee and Rep. Ken Paxton (R - McKinney) will serve as vice chair.

"The House is committed to doing everything it can to provide meaningful and responsible property tax relief to those who are strained by the burden of soaring taxes," Speaker Craddick said. "Under the experienced leadership of Rep. Otto, I have full confidence that the members of this committee will come together and create a workable solution to this issue."

The committee will review the sections of the Texas Constitution and the tax code that limit or authorize limiting the appraised value or increases in the appraised value of property for tax purposes. It may request assistance from any executive branch agency, and it will issue a report to the House of Representatives before the 81st Legislative Session, which may include draft legislation or recommendations for legislation.

"I would like to thank Speaker Craddick for allowing me to chair this committee," Rep. Otto said. "This issue of property tax increases continues to frustrate property owners who feel the current system is too subjective and unfair. I look forward to working with the committee members as we consider realistic ideas to improve the system for all taxpayers."

The committee members include: Rep. Drew Darby (R - San Angelo), Rep. Gary Elkins (R - Houston), Rep. Ismael "Kino" Flores (D - Palmview), Rep. Dan Flynn (R - Van), Rep. Dan Gattis (R - Georgetown), Rep. Joe Heflin (D - Crosbyton), Rep. Phil King (R - Weatherford), Rep. Tracy King (D - Batesville), Rep. Ruth Jones McClendon (D - San Antonio), Rep. Inocente "Chente" Quintanilla (D - Tornillo) and Rep. Larry Taylor (R - Friendswood).

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