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HB 820

Jasper County; school district ad valorem tax; provide homestead exemption

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dale Washburn

House Bill 820 offers a $40,000 homestead tax exemption for Jasper County residents aged 65+, easing their property tax burden and supporting financial stability.

Effective Date
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Bill Summary · HB 820

Summary of House Bill 820

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 820
  • Title: Jasper County; school district ad valorem tax; provide homestead exemption
  • Status: Effective Date
  • Introduced: March 21, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Sponsor: Representative Washburn of the 144th

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 820 aims to provide a homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes for educational purposes within the Jasper County school district. Specifically, it offers a $40,000 exemption on the assessed value of the homestead for residents aged 65 and older. This legislation is designed to alleviate the financial burden of property taxes on senior citizens residing in the district.

Key Provisions

  1. Homestead Exemption Amount:

    • Residents aged 65 and older are eligible for a $40,000 exemption on the assessed value of their homestead from Jasper County school district ad valorem taxes for educational purposes.

  2. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Applicants must be 65 years of age or older by January 1 of the year they apply.
    • The exemption applies only to the homestead, defined as property including up to five contiguous acres.

  3. Application Process:

    • Eligible residents must file an application with the Jasper County tax commissioner, providing necessary information to determine eligibility.
    • Residents who previously qualified for a different exemption (from 1992) will automatically qualify for this new exemption without needing to reapply.

  4. Renewal and Notification:

    • The exemption is automatically renewed each year as long as the individual continues to occupy the residence.
    • Recipients must notify the tax commissioner if they become ineligible for the exemption.

  5. Exemption Limitations:

    • The exemption does not apply to state, county, municipal, or independent school district ad valorem taxes.
    • It is in addition to other applicable homestead exemptions, except for the previously mentioned $2,000 exemption.

  6. Effective Date:

    • The exemption will take effect for taxable years beginning January 1, 2026, contingent upon voter approval.

Procedural Aspects

  • Referendum Requirement:

    • The bill requires a referendum to be held on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November 2025, where voters will decide on the approval of the exemption.
    • The election will be conducted by the Jasper County election superintendent, with costs borne by the county.

  • Voting Process:

    • Voters will be presented with a ballot question regarding the approval of the homestead exemption.

  • Automatic Repeal:

    • If the referendum does not pass, the bill will be automatically repealed one year after the election date.

Impact

This legislation is expected to provide significant financial relief to senior citizens in Jasper County, allowing them to retain more of their income and savings by reducing their property tax burden. The bill reflects a commitment to support the aging population within the community, ensuring they can afford to remain in their homes.

Legislative Actions

  • May 14, 2025: Signed by the Governor; Act 336 becomes effective.
  • April 9, 2025: Sent to the Governor.
  • April 4, 2025: Favorably reported by the Senate Committee and passed by the Senate.
  • March 31, 2025: Favorably reported by the House Committee and passed by the House.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of House Bill 820, detailing its purpose, provisions, and expected impact on the residents of Jasper County.

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

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