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HB 835

Dalton, City of; school district ad valorem tax; increase homestead exemption

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kasey Carpenter and 2 co-sponsors

House Bill 835 raises the homestead exemption for Dalton seniors 70+ from $150,000 to $325,000, providing tax relief pending voter approval in November 2025.

Effective Date
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Bill Summary · HB 835

Summary of House Bill 835 (HB 835)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 835 (HB 835) aims to amend existing legislation regarding homestead exemptions for residents of the City of Dalton independent school district who are 70 years of age or older. The primary intent of the bill is to increase the homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes for educational purposes, thereby providing financial relief to senior residents.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Homestead Exemption: The bill proposes to raise the homestead exemption from $150,000 to $325,000 of the assessed value of the homestead for eligible residents aged 70 and over.
  • Compliance with Constitutional Requirements: The bill includes provisions to ensure compliance with the constitutional requirements of the State of Georgia.
  • Referendum Requirement: The bill mandates a referendum to allow voters in the City of Dalton independent school district to approve or reject the proposed increase in the homestead exemption.
  • Election Details:
    • The election is scheduled for November 4, 2025, the Tuesday following the first Monday in November.
    • The election superintendent will be responsible for conducting the election and must publish notice of the election in the official organ of Whitfield County for two weeks prior to the election date.
    • Voters will be asked to vote "Yes" or "No" on the proposed increase.
  • Automatic Repeal: If the referendum does not pass or if the election is not conducted as specified, the bill will be automatically repealed one year after the election date.
  • Judicial Remedies: The bill provides for judicial remedies to ensure compliance by the election superintendent, allowing electors to seek a writ of mandamus if necessary.

Affected Parties

  • Senior Residents: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are residents of the City of Dalton independent school district who are 70 years of age or older, as they will see a significant increase in their homestead tax exemption.
  • City of Dalton: The city will bear the costs associated with conducting the election.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Process:
    • The bill was introduced on March 25, 2025, and underwent several readings and committee reports before passing both the House and Senate.
    • It was signed by the Governor on May 14, 2025, and became effective on the same date.
  • Voting Requirement: For the bill to become law, it must receive a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate.

Conclusion

HB 835 represents a significant change in tax policy for senior residents of the City of Dalton, aimed at providing greater financial relief through an increased homestead exemption. The successful passage of this bill hinges on voter approval in the upcoming referendum scheduled for November 2025.

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

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