The Libertarian Party of Texas (LPTexas) opposes House Bill 511, which would grant a property tax exemption to unpaid caregivers of individuals awaiting Medicaid long-term services. While well-intentioned, this bill introduces a new tax carve-out that undermines the principles of fairness, simplicity, and equal treatment under the law.

Opposing Government-Granted Privileges
HB 511 creates a special exemption for a specific group, allowing the government to arbitrarily decide who benefits from tax relief. LPTexas opposes any policy that enables the government to pick winners and losers through preferential treatment in the tax code.

Complicating an Already Opaque System
Texas’s tax system is already overly complex. HB 511 adds another layer of bureaucracy, qualifications, and conditions that make it harder for taxpayers to understand and navigate their obligations. Complexity breeds inequity and increases the potential for abuse or confusion.

Undermining Equity and Universal Tax Relief
While LPTexas supports reducing or eliminating property taxes altogether, we believe this must be done equitably for all Texans. Piecemeal exemptions distort the system and reduce transparency and consistency in how property is taxed.

Conclusion
The Libertarian Party of Texas urges the Legislature to reject HB 511. Instead of expanding targeted exemptions, lawmakers should focus on broad tax reforms that treat all property owners equally and move Texas toward the elimination of property taxes entirely.