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A 3303

Requires the forfeiture by state officers or local officers of STAR exemption eligibility upon conviction of a felony related to public employment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Gray

Bill A 3303 mandates state and local officers lose STAR tax relief eligibility upon felony conviction related to public employment, enhancing accountability and integrity.

REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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Bill Summary · A 3303

Summary of Bill A 3303

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 3303
  • Title: Requires the forfeiture by state officers or local officers of STAR exemption eligibility upon conviction of a felony related to public employment
  • Status: Referred to Governmental Operations
  • Introduced: January 27, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 3303 aims to enhance accountability among state and local officers by mandating the forfeiture of eligibility for the School Tax Relief (STAR) exemption upon conviction of a felony related to their public employment. The STAR exemption is a property tax relief program designed to reduce the tax burden on homeowners, particularly those with lower incomes or senior citizens.

Key Provisions

  • Forfeiture of STAR Exemption: The bill stipulates that any state or local officer convicted of a felony that is directly related to their role in public employment will lose their eligibility for the STAR exemption.
  • Scope of Offenses: The bill specifically targets felonies that pertain to misconduct in office or other crimes that undermine the integrity of public service.

Who Would Be Affected

  • State and Local Officers: This includes elected officials, appointed officials, and employees of state and local governments who are found guilty of relevant felonies.
  • Homeowners: Individuals who currently benefit from the STAR exemption may see changes in eligibility if their public officials are convicted under the provisions of this bill.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Journey: The bill was introduced on January 27, 2025, and has been referred to the Governmental Operations committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: The bill is connected to several prior-session bills (A 9854, A 10951, A 4368, A 5146) and has a companion bill in the Senate (S 1136), indicating ongoing legislative interest in issues of public officer accountability.

Conclusion

Bill A 3303 seeks to strengthen the ethical standards for public officials by ensuring that those convicted of serious crimes related to their public duties cannot benefit from tax relief programs designed for the public good. This legislation reflects a commitment to maintaining integrity in public service and protecting taxpayer interests.

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

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