The Senate Committee on Local Government convened on April 24, 2025, to discuss key legislative matters, including Senate Bill 2,521, introduced by Senator Bettencourt. The primary focus of this bill is to address issues related to property ownership and squatting in Texas, particularly in the wake of a property owner's death.

Senator Bettencourt opened the discussion by highlighting the bill's origins, which stemmed from concerns raised during an interim charge aimed at securing Texas against squatters. He noted that some squatters were exploiting properties owned by individuals who had recently passed away. This situation has led to significant challenges, especially in neighborhoods in Houston, as testified by City Council Member Fred Flickinger.

The bill proposes that local registrars provide monthly reports to appraisal districts, detailing each death certificate filed. This measure aims to ensure that appraisal districts are aware of deceased property owners and can take appropriate action regarding homestead exemptions. Specifically, the bill mandates that the chief appraiser periodically review the tax roll to determine if any homestead exemptions should be lifted following the death of an owner.

Senator Bettencourt emphasized the severity of the squatting issue, describing instances where individuals moved into homes after the owner's death, leading to property damage and disputes with heirs. The proposed legislation seeks to mitigate these problems by improving communication between local registrars and appraisal districts, ultimately protecting property rights and maintaining neighborhood integrity.

The committee's discussion on Senate Bill 2,521 reflects a proactive approach to addressing the complexities surrounding property ownership and the challenges posed by squatting in Texas. Further deliberations and potential amendments to the bill are expected as the legislative process continues.