The resolution, introduced on February 19, 2026, requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to study the feasibility of providing property tax relief to homeowners of primary residences in West Virginia when significant investments lead to a substantial increase in a county's property tax base. It highlights the importance of homeownership in the state, particularly for retirees and those on fixed incomes, who are often burdened by rising property taxes. The resolution emphasizes that as counties experience windfall revenue from large-scale investments, public policy should ensure that homeowners benefit from this growth through meaningful tax relief.
The study will focus on several key areas, including identifying thresholds for significant property tax base growth, evaluating phased relief models, and developing formulas for allocating new revenue between homeowner relief and essential county services. Additionally, it will analyze constitutional requirements for implementing such a framework and consider safeguards to maintain funding for public safety and education. The Joint Committee is tasked with reporting its findings and recommendations, along with any proposed legislation or constitutional amendments, to the Legislature by the first day of the 2027 Regular Session.