Bill > HB275

This bill increases the voter approval threshold for school district bond elections from a simple majority (over 50%) to a supermajority (three-fifths or 60%) for certain types of bonds. Specifically, the bill amends the Education Code to require that bonds described in Section 45.001 can only be issued if three-fifths of qualified voters approve them, instead of the previous requirement of a simple majority. The bill also adds a new provision that allows bonds described in Section 45.002 to be issued with a simple majority vote. Each bond election must still be called by a resolution or order from the governing board or commissioners court, which must specify details like the election date, propositions, and polling places. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, but only if a related constitutional amendment increasing the voter approval threshold is approved by voters in a separate election. If that constitutional amendment is not approved, this bill will have no effect, essentially making its implementation contingent on voter approval of the broader constitutional change.