Rhode Island House Bill H6247

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/23/25
• Refer: 4/23/25
• Report Pass: 6/10/25
• Engrossed: 6/16/25
• Enrolled: 6/18/25
• Passed: 6/26/25

Caption

Grants the town council of the town of Charlestown the authority to enact a homestead exemption ordinance.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would significantly impact local taxation laws in Charlestown by providing the town council with flexible options to adjust tax rates for homeowners. The ability to grant this exemption on a yearly basis enables local governance to respond to the needs of residents, particularly in times of economic hardship. The proration provision for properties that change ownership during the exemption period ensures fairness in tax assessments by allowing only qualified owners to benefit from the exemption.

Summary

House Bill H6247 proposes an amendment to Chapter 44-5 of the General Laws concerning the levy and assessment of local taxes in Rhode Island. The key provision of the bill authorizes the town council of Charlestown to establish a homestead exemption for residential and mixed-use properties. This exemption would allow for a reduction in local taxation on specified real properties used for residential purposes or their combination with commercial uses, targeting property owners with a potential maximum exemption of 10% of the assessed value.

Contention

Notably, the discussions surrounding H6247 may include various perspectives on local tax policies and the implications of tax relief measures. Advocates for the bill argue that it is a necessary tool for supporting homeowners and stimulating local economies by making housing more affordable. Critics, however, may voice concerns about the potential for uneven application or implementation challenges that could arise, particularly regarding equitable access to the exemption and its effects on overall town revenues.