Georgia House Bill HR400

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25

Caption

Georgia Keys for Heroes Amendment; provide by law - CA

Impact

If passed, HR400 would lead to significant changes in state law regarding property tax exemptions, specifically tailored to support disabled veterans. The amendment would allow municipalities to seek supplementary funding from the state to compensate for the potential revenue losses due to the additional exemptions granted to qualifying veterans. This component recognizes the financial implications for local governments and provides a mechanism for them to mitigate declines in revenue resulting from the exemption policy. As such, it attempts to balance the need for veteran support with the fiscal realities faced by local municipalities.

Summary

House Resolution 400, known as the Georgia Keys for Heroes Amendment, proposes an amendment to the Georgia Constitution that aims to enhance property tax relief for 100 percent disabled veterans. The amendment intends to authorize the Georgia General Assembly to create a law that provides a homestead exemption equivalent to the full assessed value of a veteran's primary residence under specific circumstances. This includes instances where veterans procure a loan for new residential construction, inherit a residential property, or purchase an existing home. The objective is to alleviate financial burdens on disabled veterans and support their transition to homeownership.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HR400 may involve varied perspectives. Advocates for the bill may argue that expanding the homestead exemption is a vital recognition of the sacrifices made by disabled veterans and is a moral imperative. Conversely, opponents might express concerns regarding the fiscal impact on local governments and the potential strain on public resources, particularly if supplementary funding is not adequately addressed. Finding the right balance between providing necessary benefits for veterans while ensuring sustainable funding and revenue for municipalities could be at the center of legislative debates surrounding this amendment.