Bill
HB 775
HB 775 increases the homestead exemption for Butts County seniors 62+ from $15,000 to $50,000, offering significant tax relief pending voter approval in 2026.
Bill Number: HB 775
Title: Butts County; school district ad valorem tax; increase homestead exemption
Status: Effective Date
Introduced: March 13, 2025
Author: Representative Crowe of the 118th
House Bill 775 aims to amend existing legislation regarding homestead exemptions for senior citizens in the Butts County School District. The primary intent of the bill is to increase the homestead exemption from $15,000 to $50,000 for residents aged 62 and older, thereby providing greater financial relief from ad valorem taxes levied for educational purposes.
Increased Homestead Exemption: The bill revises the current exemption amount from $15,000 to $50,000 of the assessed value of the homestead for qualifying senior citizens.
Eligibility: The exemption applies to residents of the Butts County School District who are 62 years of age or older, without regard to their income.
Referendum Requirement: The bill stipulates that the increase in the homestead exemption must be approved by voters in a referendum. This election is scheduled to coincide with the general primary in 2026.
Automatic Repeal Clause: If the referendum does not pass or if the election is not conducted as required, the provisions of the bill will be automatically repealed one year after the scheduled election date.
Compliance and Enforcement: The bill includes provisions for mandatory execution of election duties by the election superintendent of Butts County, with judicial remedies available for failure to comply.
Affected Population: The bill primarily affects senior citizens residing in the Butts County School District, providing them with significant tax relief.
Financial Implications: By increasing the exemption, eligible seniors will see a reduction in their property tax liability, potentially enhancing their financial stability.
Election Costs: The costs associated with conducting the referendum will be borne by Butts County.
Legislative Process: The bill was signed by the Governor on May 14, 2025, and became effective on the same date.
Voting Requirements: For the bill to become law, it must receive a two-thirds majority vote in both the Georgia Senate and House of Representatives.
Publication Requirement: The election superintendent is required to publish the date and purpose of the election in the official organ of Butts County for two weeks prior to the election.
House Bill 775 represents a significant change in tax policy for senior citizens in Butts County, aiming to alleviate the financial burden of educational taxes. The successful passage of this bill hinges on voter approval in the upcoming referendum, set for 2026.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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