Connecticut House Bill HB05671

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/19
• Refer: 1/18/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Property Tax Exemptions For Gold Star Parents And Surviving Spouses.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5671 would create a new requirement at the municipal level regarding property tax exemptions. This means that local governments would need to establish policies and administrative procedures to identify and verify eligibility for such exemptions. By giving tax relief to Gold Star parents and surviving spouses, the bill is anticipated to provide financial assistance that could aid these families in maintaining their homes and managing their day-to-day expenses, thereby positively impacting their quality of life.

Summary

House Bill 5671 is proposed legislation aimed at enhancing support for Gold Star parents and surviving spouses of military personnel who were killed in action. The bill mandates that every municipality in the state provide a property tax exemption specifically to these eligible individuals. This legislation is a response to the sacrifices made by military families and seeks to ease their financial burden in recognition of their loved ones' service and ultimate sacrifice for the country.

Contention

While the bill is primarily viewed as a gesture of support for military families, potential points of contention could arise around its implementation. Some critics may argue that the financial implications for municipalities, particularly those already facing budget constraints, could pose challenges. Questions might be raised about how local governments would offset the loss of property tax revenue that comes with these exemptions. Furthermore, there may be discussions about possible eligibility criteria and the administrative burden on towns to manage and enforce these new exemptions.