Minnesota House Bill HF1451

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/23
• Refer: 2/8/23

Caption

Property tax provisions modified, and disabled veterans market value exclusion modified by increasing exclusion amount for totally and permanently disabled veterans.

Impact

If enacted, HF1451 is expected to enhance support for disabled veterans by allowing them to retain more value in their properties. The legislation modifies existing provisions that determine tax liabilities based on property value, focusing specifically on veterans with service-connected disabilities. This will directly affect the Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 273.13 regarding property tax, creating a more favorable tax landscape for veterans and potentially impacting state revenue collected from property taxes. The bill is set to take effect from the assessment year 2024, providing a timeline for local tax authorities to adjust to the new regulations.

Summary

House Bill 1451 (HF1451) primarily focuses on modifying property tax provisions related to disabled veterans. The bill increases the market value exclusion amounts for totally and permanently disabled veterans, shifting the exclusion from $300,000 to $400,000 for those with a 100% disability rating. This adjustment aims to provide greater financial relief for veterans who have served in the armed forces and are now facing challenges due to their service-related disabilities. It ensures that their property tax burden is significantly reduced to promote economic stability for these individuals and their families.

Contention

Notable concerns surrounding HF1451 involve discussions on state tax policy and the potential implications for local governments. While proponents argue that increasing the tax exclusion would significantly benefit disabled veterans, opponents may worry about the long-term financial impact on local budgets, particularly in counties that rely heavily on property tax revenue. Additionally, there are concerns about ensuring robust verification processes to confirm the disability status of veterans and the potential for fraud. The dialogue around the bill emphasizes the balance between providing necessary support to veterans and maintaining fiscal responsibilities of local governments.