Bill > HB5417

This bill modifies the requirements for what constitutes a "bona fide offer" when a government or private entity with eminent domain authority wants to acquire real property through condemnation. The bill updates the existing law by specifying more detailed conditions for initial and final offers, including mandatory components such as a landowner's bill of rights statement, clear information about compensation and damages, contact information for a representative, and a written appraisal from a certified appraiser. The bill introduces new timing requirements for final offers, stipulating that final offers must be made either 30 days after the initial offer (if the final offer is equal to or higher than the initial offer) or 60 days after the initial offer (if the final offer is lower). The changes aim to provide property owners with more transparency and protection during the property acquisition process. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to initial offers made on or after that date, with previous offers continuing to be governed by the existing law at the time they were made.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5417