Maryland House Bill HB1294

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23

Caption

Property Tax Credit for Long-Term Residents - Established

Impact

The implementation of HB 1294 is expected to significantly impact local tax revenues and the financial situations of long-term homeowners. By providing a 100% tax credit for the increase in property taxes compared to the taxable year in which the resident became eligible, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden placed on long-term residents. This measure may help stabilize communities by preventing displacement of long-term homeowners and ensuring they can continue living in their homes without the threat of unaffordable taxes.

Summary

House Bill 1294 establishes a property tax credit for long-term residents in Maryland. The bill requires the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore City, as well as the governing bodies of counties and municipal corporations, to grant a tax credit against property taxes imposed on certain dwellings where individuals have resided for at least 30 consecutive years. This initiative aims to provide financial relief to residents who have maintained long-term ownership of their homes and are facing rising property taxes due to increasing property values.

Contention

There may be considerable debate surrounding the fiscal implications and the potential impact on local government funding. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect long-term residents from being pushed out of their homes due to rising property taxes, while critics may express concerns regarding the sustainability of local tax bases and the fairness of providing such credits to a specific demographic. The requirement for a majority vote in the legislature indicates that there is expected contention around the parameters of the bill and its implementation.