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Bill

HB 853

RELATING TO TAXATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tina Grandinetti and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 853 offers a $325,000 homestead tax exemption for Tunnel Hill residents aged 70+, easing their financial burden and supporting home stability.

Introduced and Pass First Reading.
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Bill Summary · HB 853

Summary of House Bill 853 (HB 853)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 853 (HB 853) aims to establish a new homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes in the City of Tunnel Hill. This exemption is specifically designed for residents aged 70 years and older, providing significant financial relief by exempting up to $325,000 of the assessed value of their homestead from city taxes.

Key Provisions

  • Homestead Exemption: Residents of Tunnel Hill who are 70 years or older will receive a homestead exemption of $325,000 from city ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes.
  • Surviving Spouse Clause: The exemption will continue for the surviving spouse of a deceased qualifying resident, provided they continue to occupy the home as their primary residence.
  • Application Process: Eligible residents must file an application with the governing authority of Tunnel Hill to receive the exemption. The application process will be facilitated by the city, which will provide necessary forms.
  • Automatic Renewal: Once granted, the exemption will automatically renew each year as long as the owner continues to occupy the residence. However, the owner must notify the city if they become ineligible.
  • Exemption Limitations: The exemption applies only to city ad valorem taxes and does not affect state or county taxes. It is also in lieu of any other homestead exemptions for city purposes.
  • Effective Date: The exemption will take effect for taxable years beginning on January 1 of the year following voter approval.

Affected Parties

  • Residents: Primarily, this bill benefits residents of Tunnel Hill who are 70 years of age or older, providing them with substantial tax relief.
  • City of Tunnel Hill: The city will need to manage the implementation of this exemption, including the application process and any necessary adjustments to tax revenue.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Approval: The bill requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the Georgia House of Representatives and Senate to become law.
  • Referendum Requirement: The bill mandates a referendum for residents to vote on the approval of the exemption. This election will coincide with the municipal general election in November 2025.
  • Automatic Repeal: If the bill is not approved by voters, it will be automatically repealed on January 1, 2026.
  • Election Management: The municipal election superintendent is responsible for conducting the election and ensuring compliance with the outlined procedures.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 25, 2025
  • Passed House: March 31, 2025
  • Passed Senate: April 2, 2025
  • Sent to Governor: April 8, 2025
  • Signed by Governor: May 14, 2025
  • Effective Date: May 14, 2025

Conclusion

HB 853 represents a targeted effort to provide financial relief to senior residents in Tunnel Hill, enhancing their ability to remain in their homes while alleviating the burden of municipal taxes. The successful implementation of this bill will depend on voter approval in the upcoming referendum.

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

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