2011 Proposed Texas Constitutional Amendments

With the upcoming November 8 ballot fast approaching it is imperative Texans familiarize themselves with the ten proposed amendments. This post will focus on three of the ten amendments to the Texas constitution. While the process is tedious, the Texas constitution requires all amendments be submitted to the public for approval or rejection. While special elections usually result in poor voter turnout and thus, a low ratification rate for new constitutional amendments, today's economy and state of politics requires Texans be more active in the political process this November. The following summarize Propositions 1, 3 and 6:

Proposition 1: Exemption from property taxation, all or in part, for spouses of 100 percent or totally disabled veterans.  

This amendment recognizes the sacrifices veterans and their spouses make by preventing them from being taxed out of their homes. Thus, supporters say this amendment will provide peace of mind to veterans. Tax exemption does not apply to spouses who remarry. 

Verdict: This blogger proposes voting for Proposition 1.

Proposition 3: Issuance of general obligation bonds of the State of Texas to finance student loans.

Recently, the availability of federally subsidized student loans has diminished. The Hinson-Hazelwood program provides low-interest, fixed-rate student loans and has a history of low-default. The state has never had to contribute funds to support this student loan program due to its self-supporting nature. As the adage goes, knowledge is power. Moreover, U.S. Census Bureau statistics highlight the financial importance of obtaining a post-secondary education. Financial stability and solvency is near and dear to citizens’ hearts and concerns at this time.

Verdict: This blogger proposes voting for Proposition 3.

Proposition 6: Empowerment of the General Land Office to distribute revenue from the permanent school fund to the available school fund.

This amendment would allow the General Land Office to essentially liquidate permanent assets that would otherwise be invested to generate ongoing growth. Traditionally, interest from the permanent school fund's investments help financially support the available school fund. Proponents to this amendment emphasis the short-term benefit and shortsightedness of the amendment. Supports say the amendment will infuse the available school fund with revenue, which will have a direct impact on public schools. However, today's property taxes, which help finance public schools, are one-third of what they were in 2005. Does the public want the General Land Office's hands in the permanent investments that help finance public schools and their growth?

Verdict: This blogger votes against Proposition 6.

The more informed the public is the more likely they will be politically involved and potentially vote on the November 8 ballot. This is particularly important in Texas where citizens often become apathetic with the onerous constitutional amendment process, which in part results in low voter turnout. Texans need to do their homework and further research the proposed constitutional amendments to gain a more accurate and encompassing working knowledge of what the future of public education and the economy will look like in Texas. 

For further information on the November 8 ballot constitutional amendments or related topics refer to the following:

The Star-Telegram's article "Water propositions deserve voter support" and "Changing the Texas Constitution (again)."

The Texas Legislative Council’s “Analyses of Proposed Constitutional Amendments."

The UPROAR's "Budget Cuts on Texas Education."