Tennessee Senate Bill SB0368

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, Chapter 5, Part 7, relative to property tax relief for disabled veterans.

Impact

The proposed amendment to Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, Chapter 5, Part 7, intends to increase the accessibility of property tax relief for disabled veterans. By enabling state funds to be used for reimbursing veterans for local property taxes, the bill seeks to ensure that disabled veterans are not financially penalized due to their service. This change is expected to positively affect the economic situation of many veterans and their families, allowing them to maintain home ownership without the additional stress of tax payments. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2025, impacting tax years thereafter.

Summary

Senate Bill 368 (SB0368) proposes amendments to existing Tennessee property tax laws, specifically aimed at providing greater relief to disabled veterans. The bill aims to alleviate the financial burden of local property taxes on disabled veterans by requiring payments from the state to cover these taxes for their primary residences. This legislation represents a significant step towards recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans and offering them some financial reprieve in recognition of their service.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive development for disabled veterans, there may be concerns regarding its financial implications for state funds and local governments. Financial analysts and local budgets could be affected by the reallocating of state funds to cover these reimbursements. Questions surrounding the sustainability of this funding mechanism and how it will affect other vital programs supported by state and local taxes might arise. As such, discussions about SB0368 may elicit differing opinions from fiscal conservatives who prioritize budget constraints versus advocates who emphasize the importance of supporting veterans.