Illinois House Bill HB5647

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/24
• Refer: 2/28/24
• Refer: 2/9/24
• Refer: 4/5/24

Caption

PROP TX-ASSESSMENT

Impact

The proposed legislation will significantly impact tax assessments in Cook County by reducing disparities in property valuations between residential and commercial/industrial properties. By enforcing equal assessments during the initial five-year period, the bill may provide a financial relief to commercial and industrial property owners, potentially encouraging development and investment in these areas. However, the emphasis on preempting local home rule powers may raise concerns among local governments about their diminished ability to tailor property tax policies to local economic conditions.

Summary

House Bill 5647, introduced by Rep. Anthony DeLuca, seeks to amend the Property Tax Code to establish a uniform assessment level for commercial and industrial properties in the Bremen, Bloom, Rich, and Thornton townships of Cook County. The bill mandates that from the assessment years 2025 through 2030, these properties will be assessed at the same level as residential properties, promoting greater equity in the tax burden among different property types. Starting in 2031, Cook County will be permitted to create a sliding scale for assessments of commercial and industrial properties, aligning them more closely with other similar properties within the county. This provision aims to offer some flexibility to county authorities in future assessments.

Contention

The preemption of home rule authority established in this bill is likely to be a contentious point among local lawmakers and community leaders. Critics may argue that the bill undermines the autonomy of local governments to manage property assessments in a manner that best suits their unique economic landscapes. Supporters contend that a uniform approach will foster easier compliance and reduce confusion among property owners regarding tax assessments. As discussions around this bill continue, the balance between state oversight and local control will be a crucial focal point.