Senate Bill No. SLS 25RS-6 proposes a constitutional amendment to extend eligibility for the special assessment level for residential properties receiving the homestead exemption to individuals who meet certain federal poverty guidelines. The bill adds new provisions to Article VII, Section 18 of the Louisiana Constitution, specifically allowing individuals who meet the federal poverty guidelines published in the prior calendar year by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to qualify for this special assessment level. The amendment retains existing provisions that prevent the assessment of such properties from increasing above the total assessment for the first year the owner qualifies, provided they continue to meet the necessary requirements.

The proposed amendment also stipulates that to maintain the special assessment level, the owner must remain the owner of the home and continue to meet the federal poverty guidelines annually. The amendment is set to become effective on January 1, 2027, and will apply to taxable years beginning on or after that date. Additionally, the amendment will be submitted to voters for approval during the statewide election scheduled for November 3, 2026.