As Election Day approaches on November 4, Forney and Kaufman County voters are preparing to navigate a ballot that is significantly different from what they may have encountered in previous elections. This year, the focus shifts from local city races to 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. These measures, introduced by the legislature, encompass a wide range of topics including taxes, homeowner exemptions, criminal justice, and funding for water infrastructure. For residents of Forney, the pressing question isn’t merely “Will this impact me locally?” but rather “How will these changes ripple through our community?” Here’s a detailed guide to some of the key propositions, their implications, and what they could mean for you.
Education and Workforce Development
One notable proposal aims to establish two permanent funds to enhance Texas’ technical college system, specifically benefiting programs within the Texas State Technical College System. The initiative seeks to bolster training for trades and technical careers in high-demand sectors. With rapid growth in North Texas, advocates argue that this plan will help satisfy the increasing demand for skilled labor in construction, energy, and technology fields. For students and employers in Kaufman County, this could translate to improved access to training and job opportunities.
Property Tax Amendments and Financial Changes
Several proposed amendments focus on property taxes and financial exemptions, including:
One amendment proposes raising the homestead exemption for school property taxes from $100,000 to $140,000.
Another would empower business owners to exempt a portion of personal property utilized for income generation.
A proposition offers a special exemption for homeowners whose residences were destroyed by fire.
These changes could result in tax relief for homeowners and small business owners in Forney. However, it’s essential to consider the potential impact on state and local services if tax revenues decrease.
Infrastructure, Growth, and Water Management
One proposed item on the ballot seeks to allocate a portion of state sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund, aimed at supporting infrastructure and accommodating future growth. For a rapidly expanding region like Kaufman County, including Forney, additional funding for water supply, reservoirs, or pipelines could alleviate pressure as new homes and businesses emerge.
Judicial Amendments and Public Safety
On the criminal justice front, one amendment proposes allowing bail denial for specific felony cases under certain conditions. Another seeks to revise the oversight structure of the judiciary by changing the membership and authority of the state commission responsible for addressing judge misconduct. While these may not directly impact daily life, they will influence how justice is administered across Texas communities, including Forney.
Other proposals pertain to rights and definitions, such as reaffirming parents' primary decision-making authority regarding their children and clarifying that only U.S. citizens may vote in Texas.
Veterans and Targeted Relief Measures
Forney’s veteran community should take note of the amendment that permits a property tax exemption for the surviving spouses of veterans who passed away due to service-connected diseases. This targeted relief measure can have a significant impact on eligible families in the region.
The Path to the Ballot
In Texas, constitutional amendments cannot be initiated by citizen petition; they must be approved by the state legislature, requiring a two-thirds vote in both chambers, before being presented to voters. These 17 measures have successfully met those criteria and will be featured at the top of your ballot on November 4.
Questions for Forney Voters
As you prepare to vote, consider these important questions:
Will this amendment directly affect my household—impacting my home value, business, or tax bill?
What changes might occur in local services, schools, or infrastructure if revenue is reduced or reallocated?
What are the arguments for and against this measure—who supports it, and why?
Am I ready to vote informed? It’s crucial to go beyond simply answering “yes” or “no” and to understand why each amendment is on the ballot and its implications for Forney.
Where to Find the Full Ballot
To review the official ballot language for all 17 constitutional amendments, visit the Texas Secretary of State’s website here: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/forms/november-2025-ballot-language-17.pdf
Final Thoughts
As you step into the voting booth on November 4, remember that you are not just casting a vote; you are influencing the constitutional framework of Texas in ways that will affect Forney. Whether regarding tax relief, growth management, judicial reforms, or education, your voice is vital. Take the time to read carefully, think locally, and vote with purpose.
