Texas has just launched a new tool that lets voters see exactly how their tax dollars are spent on local projects.
What the Database Offers
The “Local Government Bond, Tax, and Project Transparency Database” was created by the Texas Legislature through House Bill 103, which passed during the 2025 regular session. The state comptroller’s office and the Texas Bond Review Board built the platform.
- Ballot language for bonds
- Projected tax rates for debt service
- Estimated minimum annual debt service requirements resulting from the issuance of a bond
- Election results for bond approvals
- Lists of funded projects and accounting for bond proceeds
- Tax rate changes resulting from issued bonds
- Election results for tax rate elections
- Proposed or approved maintenance tax rates for school districts
- Ballot language for school district maintenance taxes
Comptroller’s Statement
Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock said in a Monday announcement that the database “empowers taxpayers with timely, accessible information on bonds, tax rate elections and project spending.” He added, “It reflects our commitment to transparency and informed decision-making across Texas communities.”
Legislative Requirements
House Bill 103 also requires local governments to submit information about taxpayer-approved projects after they are approved during an election.
Key Takeaways
- The database provides comprehensive data on bonds, tax rates, and project spending.
- It was established by House Bill 103 during the 2025 regular session.
- Local governments must report approved projects to the database.
The new database marks a significant step toward greater transparency in how Texas local governments use public funds.
