Iowa Senate Bill SSB1088

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 1/26/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to certain filing deadlines for property tax credits available to certain elderly, disabled, and low-income persons and including effective date and applicability provisions.(See SF 215.)

Impact

The potential impact of SSB1088 on state laws includes a significant adjustment in how property tax credits are administered at the local level. By allowing additional time for filing claims, the bill aims to increase the number of eligible claimants who can benefit from the property tax credits. This could lead to a greater distribution of tax relief to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and disabled, thereby potentially reducing the financial strain these groups face in relation to property ownership. The bill's effective date of immediate enactment ensures that the changes can be implemented sooner rather than later, intending to benefit those in need without delay.

Summary

Senate Study Bill 1088 (SSB1088) proposes updates to the filing deadlines for property tax credits specifically designed for elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals in Iowa. The bill seeks to amend existing legislation which currently requires that claims for property tax credits be submitted to county treasurers between January 1 and June 1 prior to the fiscal year in which the taxes are due. Under SSB1088, there will be provisions allowing county treasurers to extend this deadline for filing claims up to March 31 of the fiscal year, providing additional flexibility for claimants who may face challenges in meeting the original deadlines due to various reasons including illness or absence. This is intended to help more individuals access the available credits that can alleviate their property tax burdens.

Contention

While the bill seems largely beneficial on the surface, there could be points of contention regarding the implementation of extended deadlines by county treasurers. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the administrative burdens this creates for local governments, which must balance the extended deadlines with timely processing of claims to ensure fiscal accountability and manage tax revenue effectively. Additionally, the interpretation of 'good cause' which justifies the extension could lead to varied applications across different counties, potentially leading to disparities in access to these tax credits. Thus, while aimed at inclusivity, the bill may necessitate careful oversight to ensure equitable implementation across the state.