The bill amends Section 44-3-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 44-3, which addresses property taxation, specifically enhancing veterans' exemptions. The primary change is the increase of the property tax exemption for eligible veterans and their unmarried widows or widowers from $1,000 to $6,000. This exemption applies to veterans from various conflicts, including World War I, World War II, the Korean conflict, and the Vietnam conflict, among others.
The bill also maintains provisions for local councils to set varying exemption amounts for different municipalities, allowing for flexibility in tax relief. Specific towns, such as Burrillville, Little Compton, and North Providence, may provide exemptions for totally disabled veterans, with amounts determined by local ordinances.
Additionally, the bill removes the previous provision allowing the town of Coventry to provide a $1,000 exemption for active members of the armed forces. The legislation is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, aiming to enhance financial support for veterans and their families by increasing property tax relief measures.
Statutes affected: 5309: 44-3-4
5309 SUB A: 44-3-4