Bill > HB787

This bill provides a property tax exemption for senior citizens in the City of Chickamauga, Georgia. Specifically, residents who are 70 years of age or older and have lived in the city for at least five years will be eligible for a $50,000 exemption on the assessed value of their homestead property for municipal taxes. The exemption applies only to city property taxes and does not cover state, county, or school district taxes. The unremarried surviving spouse of a qualifying senior can continue to receive the exemption if they are at least 67 years old and continue to occupy the home. To receive the exemption, residents must file an initial application with the city, after which the exemption will be automatically renewed each year as long as they remain eligible. The bill requires a referendum to be held in November 2025, where Chickamauga voters will decide whether to approve the tax exemption. If more than half of the votes cast are in favor, the exemption will take effect on January 1, 2026. The bill also includes provisions ensuring that if the election is not properly conducted, the proposed tax exemption will not become law.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71409