If enacted, HB 917 would have significant implications for homeowners. By making the exclusion permanent, individuals who have their mortgage debt forgiven—whether due to foreclosure, loan restructuring, or other financial relief options—would not see this relief counted as taxable income. This move could encourage banks and financial institutions to offer more lenient loan restructuring options during economic downturns, facilitating greater stability in the housing market and aiding homeownership retention.
Summary
House Bill 917, known as the Mortgage Debt Tax Forgiveness Act of 2025, aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code to permanently exclude the discharge of qualified principal residence indebtedness from gross income. This legislation seeks to provide homeowners relief by ensuring that forgiven mortgage debt does not result in adverse tax consequences for individuals who may have faced financial hardship leading to mortgage discharge.
Contention
While the bill is expected to garner support from various members advocating for homeowner protections, it may also face scrutiny regarding fiscal implications. Opponents might raise concerns about how permanent exclusions of mortgage debt from taxable income may impact government revenue. Additionally, there could be debates over whether this policy disproportionately benefits higher-income households or if it effectively assists lower-income individuals struggling with mortgage debt.