Mason Votes for Immediate Property Tax Relief

GURNEE, Ill. – State Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is working to bring property tax relief to homeowners, having recently supported a measure that would suspend late payment penalties on property taxes, as well as grant one-year deferrals on all senior, veteran and disabled homeowner exemptions.

“As all of us are trying to adapt to the financial effects of the coronavirus outbreak, it is expected that some families will struggle to make their property tax payments on time,” Mason said. “No one should have to make the heartbreaking decision between paying a mortgage or feeding their family.”

Mason supported Senate Bill 685, bipartisan legislation that brings immediate property tax relief to homeowners across the state. Senate Bill 685 provides for suspension of late payment penalties and tax sales, giving more flexibility to homeowners experiencing financial hardship. Additionally, the bill includes a one-year deferral on all senior, veteran, and disabled homeowner exemptions, so homeowners do not have to reapply for their cost-saving exemptions.

During her time in the Illinois General Assembly, Mason has been a vocal advocate for property tax relief. Recently, she joined Reps. Daniel Didech, Rita Mayfield and Bob Morgan in calling on the Lake County Board to eliminate late payment penalties on 2020 property tax payments in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is vital that Democrats and Republicans statewide come together to address the issue of skyrocketing property taxes weighing on the backs and wallets of our homeowners,” Mason said. “I am grateful that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle were able to come together to pass legislation that brings some immediate relief to those shouldering high property tax burdens.”

Senate Bill 685 passed both the House and Senate with bipartisan support and is headed for the governor’s desk to become law.​