By Jamie Martin
Family farms make up over 90 percent of all farms in Texas, representing generations of dedication and hard work. These farms are the backbone of the state’s agriculture, providing food, jobs, and stability for rural areas.
Proposition 8, on the ballot this November, would permanently ban state estate, inheritance, and gift taxes. This step ensures that families are not forced to sell land or equipment to pay taxes after the loss of a loved one.
Currently, Texas does not have these taxes, but the measure prevents future administrations from introducing them. It clarifies existing law while protecting against new burdens. The amendment does not change property or vehicle taxes already in place.
Most family farms have assets tied up in land and livestock rather than cash. In states that impose estate taxes, heirs have sometimes had to sell portions of farms to pay bills, threatening family legacies. Proposition 8 removes that risk, securing continuity for future generations.
Texas agriculture spans nearly 250,000 farms and 125 million acres, generating over $32 billion in yearly sales and employing one in seven Texans. With rising input costs—like higher fuel, fertilizer, and labour—keeping farms stable is more crucial than ever.
This amendment helps ensure that farms remain the heart of the Texas economy and community life.
Photo Credit: istock-alenamozhjer
Categories: National