Bill > HB832

This bill provides a homestead tax exemption for residents of the Paulding County school district, which will reduce the property taxes paid on individual homes. Specifically, homeowners will receive an exemption equal to the difference between their current home's assessed value and its "adjusted base year assessed value," which is essentially a baseline value that can modestly increase each year with inflation. To qualify, homeowners must apply with the Paulding County tax commissioner, though those who already have a homestead exemption in 2026 will be automatically enrolled for 2027. The exemption will not apply to taxes for bond repayments or other governmental purposes, and it can only be used with one type of base year value exemption. Before implementation, the bill requires a referendum during the 2026 general primary election where Paulding County voters will decide whether to approve the tax exemption. If more than half of voters approve, the exemption will take effect on January 1, 2027. The bill also includes provisions ensuring that if the election is not properly conducted, the proposed tax exemption will be automatically repealed. Importantly, the exemption transfers with the homestead only to an unremarried surviving spouse and does not automatically transfer to subsequent property owners.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71633