Fairfield Reporter

State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) has announced that the Ohio Senate has passed House Bill 187, a measure that aims to provide property tax relief for eligible seniors, disabled citizens, and disabled veterans. The bill increases the income eligibility amount for these groups from $36,100 to $75,000, offering direct tax relief to those most affected by rising property valuations.

Schaffer expressed his understanding of the financial challenges faced by his constituents, stating, "I have been hearing from my constituents for months about how they are affected by the recent increases in property valuations. This legislation will stop the financial bleeding for our most impacted seniors and disabled citizens, ensuring they can keep their homes and maintain their quality of life."

Under the provisions of House Bill 187, individuals must meet certain criteria to qualify for the increased homestead exemption. These criteria include having a household income at or below $75,000 and being at least 65 years old, permanently and totally disabled, or the surviving spouse of someone who otherwise qualified and is at least 59 years of age.

The bill also outlines the increased exemption amounts for the next three years based on income brackets. For individuals with incomes of $36,100 and below, there will be a $30,000 exemption. Those with incomes ranging from $36,101 to $49,000 will receive a $22,500 exemption. Individuals earning between $49,001 and $62,000 will be eligible for a $15,000 exemption, and those with incomes between $62,001 and $75,000 will receive a $7,500 exemption. Additionally, the exemption amount for disabled veterans will increase from $50,000 to $60,000.

This legislation aims to alleviate the financial burden on eligible seniors, disabled citizens, and disabled veterans who have been adversely affected by the recent surge in property valuations. By increasing the income eligibility amount and expanding the exemption, the bill ensures that these individuals can continue to afford their homes and maintain their quality of life.

House Bill 187 will now proceed to the Ohio House for concurrence, where further discussion and deliberation will take place. Ohio residents can find more information about the bill on the official Ohio legislature website.

The passing of House Bill 187 signifies a step forward in providing much-needed property tax relief to seniors, disabled citizens, and disabled veterans in Ohio. As the bill moves forward in the legislative process, it is hoped that it will garner further support and ultimately be signed into law, offering tangible assistance to those most in need.

To learn more, click on this link: https://ohiosenate.gov/members/tim-schaffer/news/schaffer-votes-for-homestead-exemption-expansion-for-seniors-and-disabled