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Bill

Bill

SB 101

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A STATE-WIDE PROPERTY TAX ON CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Elliott and 3 co-sponsors

Connecticut proposes new statewide property tax on residential real estate to equalize education funding, potentially redistributing wealth between municipalities.

PUBLIC HEARING 0227
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Bill Summary · SB 101

Legislative bill overview

SB 101 would establish a statewide property tax on certain residential real estate in Connecticut, creating a new revenue stream at the state level rather than relying solely on municipal property taxation. The bill has been referred to the Joint Committee on Finance, Revenue and Bonding and is scheduled for public hearings in late February 2026.

Why is this important

Connecticut currently relies on municipal property taxes as the primary funding mechanism for local schools and services, creating significant disparities in educational quality and public services based on local wealth. A statewide residential property tax could redistribute education funding more equitably across rich and poor communities, but would fundamentally alter Connecticut's tax structure and potentially increase overall tax burdens on homeowners depending on implementation details.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax burden impact: Homeowners in lower-tax municipalities may face substantially higher taxes, while those in high-tax areas might see reductions—creating winners and losers based on current local tax rates
  • State versus local control: A statewide tax may reduce municipal autonomy over education and service funding, raising concerns about local decision-making authority
  • Definition of "certain residential property": The bill's scope (which properties are taxed, rate structure, exemptions for primary residences or low-income homeowners) will significantly affect its distributional impact and political viability

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

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