Texans vote “yes” to all 17 propositions

The Associated Press projected all Texas’ 17 propositions listed on Tuesday’s ballot will pass.  Ten of the 17 amendments focus on tax policy.  While Texas doesn’t currently have a capital gains tax, securities tax, or inheritance tax, several propositions aim to ban these taxes permanently, requiring future constitutional amendments to change course.

One far-reaching tax proposal is Proposition 13, which would raise the school district homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000, potentially lowering property taxes for millions of Texans.

Other key propositions include Proposition 1, which would create a new investment fund for the Texas State Technical College (TSTC) – a move aimed at expanding access to technical training as demand for skilled workers surges.

Proposition 14 establishes the Dementia Prevention and Research Institution of Texas, allocating $3 billion for research into Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and related diseases.

Proposition 4 directs up to $1 billion/year in sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund for infrastructure improvements.

In West Kerr County, the Divide Independent School District’s $7 million bond proposal was defeated with 38 votes against it and 29 votes in favor of it.  The bond would have increased the capacity of students at the school to 80 and would have helped finance renovations and additions to the school, located on Texas 41.