Georgia House Bill HB811

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/25
• Report Pass: 3/31/25
• Engrossed: 3/31/25
• Refer: 3/31/25
• Report Pass: 4/2/25
• Enrolled: 4/8/25
• Chaptered: 5/14/25
• Passed: 5/14/25

Caption

Lowndes County; school district ad valorem tax; provide homestead exemption

Impact

If enacted, HB 811 would amend existing tax laws governing ad valorem taxes specifically related to education within Lowndes County. The implications for state law include a clarification of senior exemptions and the processes involved in obtaining them, making it easier for eligible residents to benefit from the tax relief. The bill includes provisions for automatic renewal of the exemption, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for qualifying homeowners and ensuring continued financial assistance over the years.

Summary

House Bill 811 seeks to provide financial relief to senior citizens residing within the Lowndes County school district by instituting a homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes for educational purposes. Specifically, the bill grants a $40,000 exemption for residents aged 65 and older and a $50,000 exemption for those aged 70 and older. This financial assistance aims to lessen the tax burden on elderly homeowners, thereby promoting housing stability for a demographic that often faces fixed incomes and rising costs of living.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 811 appears to be largely positive, particularly among advocates for senior citizens. Supporters argue that the legislation addresses the financial challenges faced by older residents, offering them essential support through tax relief. However, there may also be concerns from those who feel that such exemptions can place additional fiscal pressure on educational funding, which may require thorough debate and consideration within the community.

Contention

There are potential points of contention regarding the bill's funding and its long-term implications for the educational budget of Lowndes County. Critics might question the sustainability of providing such tax exemptions and how they impact the overall funding of the school district. Should the exemptions limit available educational resources, the bill could become a focal point for larger discussions about funding priorities and the balance between supporting seniors and adequately funding education in the community.