Date:  October 15, 2009                                         FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Tommy Merritt
Phone: 903-235-7302

MERRITT ADDRESSES MISINFORMATION ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BALLOT LANGUAGE

            Austin - Today Rep. Tommy Merritt (R-Longview) responded to confusion about ballot language for constitutional amendments for the November 3 General Election.  Propositions 2, 3 and 5 have caused confusion among constituents of Rep. Merritt's district.

            "I understand that erroneous emails have been circulating about the ballot language, and that voters may be confused by the information provided in the emails," Rep. Merritt stated.  "I want to make sure people understand what they are voting on before November 3rd."

            The legislation for these amendments passed both the House and the Senate unanimously and will help to ensure that tax appraisals in Texas are fair to property owners and are uniform from county to county.

            Proposition 2 will require county appraisal districts to value a home as a home.  Currently, appraisal districts can use the "best and highest use" method to value a residence based on its potential use.  For example, a residence in a neighborhood zoned for mixed use could be appraised at a higher amount for its possible use as a commercial property. 

            Proposition 3 gives the state the ability to make sure appraisal methods are consistent throughout the 254 counties in Texas.  Proposition 5 will make it acceptable for two adjoining appraisal districts to combine their boards of equalization if they wish - an option that rural counties may find attractive.

            "It's important for voters to understand the meaning of the ballot language so they can make an informed decision when they vote," Rep. Merritt said.  "I will work with legislators next session to try to make ballot language for constitutional amendments easier to understand."

            Rep. Merritt is Chairman of the House Committee on Public Safety and serves on the House Committees on Transportation, Local & Consent Calendars and Redistricting.  He represents Gregg County and northern Smith County to include Winona, Lindale and Hideaway Lake.