Bill > HB811

This bill provides a homestead tax exemption for residents of the Lowndes County school district who are 65 years of age or older, allowing them to exempt $40,000 of their property's assessed value from school district ad valorem (property) taxes for educational purposes, and for residents 70 years of age or older, allowing them to exempt $50,000 of their property's assessed value. To qualify, residents must file an application with the Lowndes County tax commissioner, though some existing exemption holders will be automatically transferred. The exemption will only apply to school district educational taxes and not to state, county, or municipal taxes, and will take effect on January 1, 2027, but only after receiving approval through a mandatory referendum during the 2026 general primary election. The bill requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the Georgia Senate and House of Representatives to become law, and includes provisions to ensure the election is conducted properly, with potential judicial remedies if the election superintendent fails to follow the prescribed process. If approved by voters, the exemption will be automatically renewed each year as long as the homeowner continues to occupy the property and meets the age requirements.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71550