Bill > HB846

This bill provides a homestead tax exemption for Cherokee County residents, contingent on the passage of a local option sales tax referendum. Specifically, residents would receive an additional exemption from county ad valorem (property) taxes, with the exemption amount calculated based on proceeds from a new retail homestead option sales and use tax. To qualify, residents must file an application with the Cherokee County tax commissioner, providing personal information to verify eligibility. The exemption would be automatically renewed each year as long as the homeowner continues to occupy the property. Importantly, this exemption would not apply to state, school district, or municipal property taxes and is in addition to any existing homestead exemptions. The bill requires a special election on November 5, 2025, where voters will decide whether to approve the tax exemption. If more than half of the votes cast support the measure and the related sales tax is approved, the exemption will become effective for the specified taxable years. The bill also includes provisions requiring a two-thirds majority vote in the state legislature to pass and will be automatically repealed if certain conditions are not met. The effectiveness of the bill is further contingent on a complementary amendment to the state's homestead option sales and use tax law being enacted during the 2025 legislative session.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71648