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Bill

HB 1385

Homestead exemption; delete requirement that counties submit paper original of application for the DOR.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Trey Lamar

Mississippi removes requirement for counties to submit paper homestead exemption applications to the Department of Revenue, enabling digital filing.

Passed As Amended
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Bill Summary · HB 1385

Legislative bill overview

HB 1385 eliminates the requirement that Mississippi counties submit paper original copies of homestead exemption applications to the Department of Revenue (DOR). Instead, counties would presumably submit applications through digital or alternative means. This streamlines administrative procedures for processing homestead property tax exemptions.

Why is this important

Homestead exemptions reduce property tax burdens for owner-occupied primary residences, affecting thousands of Mississippi homeowners. Modernizing the submission process reduces administrative costs for county assessors' offices and can accelerate exemption processing times, potentially benefiting applicants seeking timely tax relief.

Potential points of contention

  • Digital infrastructure gaps: Rural counties may lack reliable digital systems to submit and track applications, creating implementation challenges
  • Record-keeping and audit concerns: Eliminating paper originals could raise questions about document verification, authenticity, and the state's ability to audit county compliance
  • Transition burden: Counties must establish new systems and procedures, requiring training and potential upfront technology investment despite long-term savings

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

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