Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2328

Introduced
2/12/24  
Refer
2/12/24  
Report Pass
4/2/24  
Engrossed
4/9/24  
Refer
4/10/24  
Report Pass
4/23/24  
Enrolled
5/2/24  

Caption

Grants the town of Jamestown the legal authority to grant a tax dollar reduction to gold star parents and to visually impaired persons.

Impact

The enactment of S2328 is expected to lead to a noticeable reduction in property tax burdens on gold star parents and visually impaired persons within Jamestown. These exemptions aim to alleviate financial pressures on families that have already made significant sacrifices, particularly in the case of gold star parents, and to support those living with disabilities. By empowering local government to extend these exemptions, the bill promotes a more tailored approach to taxation that acknowledges the specific needs of its residents. Such measures may also inspire other municipalities to consider similar legislation to assist their communities.

Summary

S2328 is a legislative act aimed at providing tax reductions for specific groups, namely gold star parents and individuals who are legally blind, focusing on the town of Jamestown. The bill amends existing laws regarding property taxation, allowing the town to grant exemptions from property taxes, which is a significant change in the legislative framework regarding tax relief for vulnerable communities in the area. This act is introduced to enhance the financial support that these individuals receive due to their unique circumstances—gold star parents who have lost a child in service and visually impaired residents who face additional burdens in daily living costs.

Conclusion

Overall, S2328 serves as a legislative step towards recognizing the sacrifices of gold star parents and addressing the challenges faced by the visually impaired within the community of Jamestown. This bill reflects a growing trend towards supportive fiscal policies and personalized governance that take into account the varied circumstances of citizens in order to foster a more equitable state economy.

Contention

While the bill receives broad support, there are nuanced discussions surrounding the implications of allowing local authorities, like Jamestown, the power to modify tax exemptions. Some legislative members may express concerns about how these changes could set precedents for varying tax regulations across different municipalities, leading to inequality in fiscal treatment of similar situations. Others may voice apprehensions regarding the impact on overall municipal revenue, which could be affected by such exemptions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5951

Property Subject To Taxation

RI S0710

Property Subject To Taxation

RI H5263

Tax Relief In The Town Of Jamestown

RI S0056

Tax Relief In The Town Of Jamestown

RI H5619

Property Subject To Taxation

RI S0705

Property Subject To Taxation

RI H5049

Levy And Assessment Of Local Taxes

RI S1104

Levy And Assessment Of Local Taxes

RI H6487

Levy And Assessment Of Local Taxes

RI S0983

Property Subject To Taxation

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