The bill amends the General Property Tax Act to provide clearer guidelines for property tax exemptions based on poverty. It establishes that individuals who are deemed unable to contribute to public charges due to poverty may be eligible for a full or partial exemption from property taxes on their principal residence. To qualify, applicants must own and occupy the property, file a claim with the board of review, and provide necessary documentation, including income tax returns or affidavits if they are not required to file. The bill also specifies that the local assessing unit must make its exemption policies publicly available and outlines the process for granting exemptions, including the potential for full or partial reductions in taxable value.

Additionally, the bill allows for certain exemptions to remain in effect for subsequent tax years without reapplication, provided there are no changes in ownership or occupancy status. It introduces provisions for local assessing units to conduct audits of exemption claims and mandates that individuals who fail to maintain eligibility may be subject to repayment of additional taxes with interest. The bill also clarifies that if a property was exempt in the previous year, it may continue to be exempt in the current year if a resolution is adopted by the local governing body. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the exemption process and ensure that those in need receive appropriate tax relief.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 211.7