Hoffman Helps Pass Legislation Offering Property Tax Relief to Middle-Class Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Homeowners across the state will receive a break from high property taxes under a comprehensive tax relief package supported by state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, increasing the value of key property tax credits for families, seniors and veterans.

“I consistently hear from residents in my district that they need property tax relief,” Hoffman said. “This proposal works to reduce the burden that rising property taxes have placed on the pocket-books of middle-class families in the Metro East and across the state.”

Hoffman voted to pass House Bill 156, a comprehensive package of property tax relief measures on Thursday. Hoffman’s bill provides homeowners with relief above and beyond the freeze discussed by the governor, by increasing the value of key property tax exemptions that help homeowners reduce the taxable value of their homes and cut their taxes. Beginning in 2018:

• All homeowners would be eligible for an annual $8,000 exemption on their primary residence;
• Seniors on fixed incomes would see lower property tax bills, as an exemption for homeowners over the age of 65 would increase from $5,000 to $6,000 annually;
• Creates a new property tax freeze for disabled homeowners receiving Supplemental Security Income from the federal government;
• Expands tax credits provided to long-term homeowners.

“When rising property taxes are pricing working families out of their homes, there’s a serious problem that needs to be fixed,” Hoffman said. “I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the governor to enact this reform package and ensure that homeowners in the Metro East receive real property tax relief.”

House Bill 156 received bipartisan support in the House, and now awaits consideration in the Senate.