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B 26-0094

Society for Science Real Property Tax Exemption Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Brooke Pinto

Bill grants real property tax exemption to Society for Science nonprofit, reducing DC tax revenue in exchange for recognizing the organization's educational mission.

Re-Referred to Committee of the Whole
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Bill Summary · B 26-0094

Legislative bill overview

This bill amends DC tax law to grant real property tax exemption status to the Society for Science, a nonprofit educational organization. The exemption would apply to property owned and occupied by the organization for its exempt purposes, following standard DC procedures for nonprofit tax-exempt designations.

Why is this important

Property tax exemptions represent foregone municipal revenue, shifting tax burden to other property owners. The Society for Science operates the prestigious Science Fair and provides STEM education programs, so the exemption affects both DC's tax base and recognition of scientific education's public benefit role.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Loss of property tax revenue from the exempted property must be absorbed by DC's general fund or offset through other means
  • Precedent concerns: Granting individual exemptions may create pressure for similar bills for other nonprofits, potentially eroding the tax base
  • Public benefit definition: Questions about whether the organization's activities sufficiently serve the broader DC public or primarily benefit specific populations/participants

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

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