Bill > SB1405

This bill amends the Property Tax Code to create a $5,000 homestead exemption for the surviving spouse of a police officer or firefighter killed in the line of duty on or after January 1, 2026. The exemption applies to the property used as the primary residence by the surviving spouse, as long as they hold legal title, permanently reside on the property, and do not remarry. If the surviving spouse moves to a licensed nursing home or veterans' facility, the exemption can continue while the property remains unoccupied. The exemption is available for properties with an equalized assessed value under $250,000 and requires annual reapplication. The bill broadly defines "firefighter" to include traditional firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians employed by local governments, and "police officer" to include various law enforcement professionals from municipal, county, state, and educational institutions. The exemption can be transferred to a new primary residence if the original property is sold, ensuring ongoing tax relief for qualifying surviving spouses.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1405&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104