Legislative Priorities

Stay informed about the policies shaping the rental housing industry. Explore TAA’s legislative priorities and advocacy efforts, promoting fair and balanced laws that benefit both renters and property owners.

Advocating for a Stronger Rental Housing Industry in Texas.

As the only organization representing all aspects of the industry with a full-time presence at the Texas Capitol, TAA ensures the industry’s voice is heard on legislative and regulatory issues that impact property owners, developers, builders, and managers.

TAA’s advocacy supports both the industry and its residents by collaborating with stakeholders—including government agencies, resident groups, and advocacy organizations—to address challenges and drive consensus-based solutions.

Key achievements include establishing safety standards for residential housing, supporting affordable housing initiatives, and championing free-market policies to reform property tax administration. TAA also advocates for voluntary participation in government assistance programs and has led efforts to improve Texas’s civil justice system through tort reform.

TAA advocacy has strengthened Texas’s rental housing industry by promoting growth, innovation, and sustainability. It continues to support a thriving environment for residents, businesses, and communities across the state.

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Top Legislative Priorities

The Texas Apartment Association closely tracks legislative issues that impact the rental housing industry, with a focus on key priority bills that affect our members. Our government affairs team is actively engaged in monitoring legislation, advocating for policies that protect property owners and residents, and providing timely updates to our members.

View Priority Legislation: Squatters/Eviction Reform →

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Evictions/Squatters

  • Evictions should be consistent, efficient, and straightforward to resolve legal claims promptly.
  • Evictions are a last resort and necessary to regain possession when rent is unpaid, or lease terms are violated.
  • Squatters pose unique threats; Texas needs expedited processes to protect property owners and communities.

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Affordability/Property Taxes

  • Housing affordability is influenced by several factors beyond a property owners control including property taxes, insurance, labor, and materials
  • Reducing property taxes and reforming the tax process are crucial to making rental housing more affordable.

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Priority Legislation: Squatters/Eviction Reform

SB ____ / HB ____
By: Bettencourt / Button

Why We Need This Bill:
• Protect property owners from lengthy, costly evictions
• Close loopholes that squatters exploit
• Ensure fair and timely removal of unauthorized occupants
• Strengthen civil remedies and swiftly return possession

Key Contents of the Bill:
• Streamlined eviction process for unauthorized occupants
• Efficient court timelines and appeal procedures

Why Civil Process, Not Just Criminal Penalties:
• Ensures timely return of property
• Reduces strain on law enforcement and courts
• Provides property owners with clear, consistent legal remedies

For more information on our legislative priorities or to ask questions, please contact us at govtaffairs@taa.org.

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Property Owner/Resident Relations

  • The relationship is governed by laws and lease agreements that outline responsibilities for both parties.
  • TAA’s lease agreement, recognized by HUD, enhances transparency and helps residents make informed decisions.
  • TAA encourages residents who may have an issue with their rental housing to contact their property owners and make them aware of the issue.

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For more information on our legislative priorities or to ask questions, please contact us at govtaffairs@taa.org.