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H 3026

An Act allowing the town of Williamstown to expand financial eligibility for senior property tax exemption

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Barrett

Bill H 3026 allows Williamstown to expand property tax exemption eligibility for seniors, easing financial burdens and helping more residents stay in their homes.

Read third (title changed) and passed to be engrossed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 3026

Summary of Bill H 3026: An Act Allowing the Town of Williamstown to Expand Financial Eligibility for Senior Property Tax Exemption

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3026 aims to provide the town of Williamstown, Massachusetts, with the authority to expand the financial eligibility criteria for its senior property tax exemption program. This legislation is designed to alleviate the financial burden on senior citizens by allowing more individuals to qualify for property tax relief.

Key Provisions

  • Expansion of Eligibility: The bill permits Williamstown to increase the limits on gross receipts and whole estate (both real and personal) for seniors seeking property tax exemptions.
  • Reference to Existing Laws: The new limits will exceed those established by the current state statutes, specifically referencing clauses 41, 41(b), and 41(c) of section 5 of chapter 59 of the General Laws.
  • Circuit Breaker Tax Credit: The bill stipulates that the new limits must not exceed the "circuit breaker" state income tax credit limit, which is determined by the commissioner of revenue for married persons filing jointly, regardless of the taxpayer's marital status.

Affected Parties

  • Senior Citizens: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be senior residents of Williamstown who may currently be unable to qualify for property tax exemptions due to existing financial limitations.
  • Town of Williamstown: The town will have the authority to adjust its local tax policies to better serve its senior population, potentially improving community support for older residents.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has since undergone several legislative actions.
  • Current Status: As of November 13, 2025, the bill has been read a second time and ordered to a third reading. It has passed through various stages, including committee reviews and a favorable report.
  • Local Approval: The bill has received local approval, indicating that it has the support of the town's governance structure.

Conclusion

Bill H 3026 represents a significant step towards enhancing financial support for senior citizens in Williamstown by expanding property tax exemption eligibility. If enacted, it could provide much-needed relief to many seniors, allowing them to maintain their homes and financial stability. The bill is currently progressing through the legislative process and awaits further readings and approvals.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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