Virginia Senate Bill SB360

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Disabled veterans and surviving spouses; state subsidy of property tax exemptions.

Impact

The implementation of SB360 would significantly affect local taxation policies by introducing state funding mechanisms for local governments. By compensating localities that provide property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and surviving spouses, the bill seeks to encourage local jurisdictions to adopt such exemptions without fearing negative fiscal impacts. This could lead to an increase in the number of localities offering tax relief, thereby benefiting a vulnerable segment of the population without imposing additional costs on the localities themselves.

Summary

Senate Bill 360 aims to provide state subsidies for property tax exemptions applicable to disabled veterans and surviving spouses. It establishes a framework for localities to receive state reimbursement for the revenue they forego from exempting real estate taxes for qualified individuals. This bill adds a new chapter to Title 58.1 of the Code of Virginia, defining key terms such as 'eligible locality' and outlining the application process for localities wishing to secure subsidies. The intent behind this legislation is to support disabled veterans and their families by alleviating financial burdens associated with property taxation.

Contention

While the bill primarily aims to assist disabled veterans and their surviving spouses, there are potential points of contention regarding the role of state versus local governance in financial matters. Critics may argue that state subsidies could incentivize localities to over-rely on the state for funding, leading to a reduction in local autonomy. Additionally, there may be debates on the adequacy of the subsidy amounts and the criteria for determining eligible localities, which could create inequities in how different regions support their disabled residents.