The legislation will have a significant impact on the operational structure of the board of review by enforcing strict legal qualifications for its members. This could also influence the overall functioning of property tax assessments, as qualified attorneys may bring a more robust understanding of legal standards and procedural fairness to the review process. By raising the bar for membership, the bill seeks to enhance accountability and professionalism among those charged with reviewing and contesting property tax valuations.
House Bill 1816 aims to amend the Property Tax Code in Illinois by instituting new requirements for members of the board of review in counties with populations of 3,000,000 or more. Specifically, the bill mandates that all members of the board must be attorneys licensed to practice law in Illinois. This requirement is intended to ensure that the board consists of individuals with the requisite legal expertise, potentially improving the quality and fairness of property tax assessments in these larger counties.
While supporters argue that this measure will enhance the integrity and effectiveness of property tax reviews, critics might contend that such a requirement could limit the pool of potential candidates, thereby hindering the representation of diverse perspectives on the board. Concerns may also arise regarding the ability of homeowners to engage with an all-attorney board, as this could create a dynamic where the average citizen feels less equipped to navigate the review process. Additionally, the bill restricts the concurrent exercise of home rule powers, which could be seen as diminishing local governance autonomy in favor of state-level oversight.