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Bill

S 1931

An Act increasing the valuation limit for the senior circuit breaker

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Will Brownsberger and 1 co-sponsor

Increases property valuation threshold for senior circuit breaker tax relief, expanding tax breaks to elderly homeowners in higher-valued properties.

Hearing scheduled for 06/16/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
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Bill Summary · S 1931

Legislative bill overview

S 1931 increases the property valuation limit for Massachusetts's senior circuit breaker tax relief program, which provides property tax breaks to qualifying elderly and disabled homeowners. The bill adjusts the threshold for determining eligibility and/or benefit levels based on home value, making the program accessible to seniors living in properties with higher assessments.

Why is this important

Massachusetts property values have risen significantly, causing many seniors to lose eligibility for circuit breaker relief despite having modest incomes. Increasing the valuation limit helps preserve tax relief for fixed-income elderly residents in appreciating neighborhoods, preventing forced displacement due to rising tax obligations on homes they've owned long-term.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal cost: Expanding eligibility increases state tax expenditures; opponents may argue resources should target lower-income seniors instead
  • Valuation threshold debate: Disagreement over what the appropriate limit should be and whether it adequately reflects current market conditions across different regions
  • Program design philosophy: Questions about whether property-tax relief is the best mechanism for senior assistance versus income-based programs or state reimbursement to municipalities

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

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