Bill > H4051

This bill amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40, Section 56 to provide municipalities with more flexibility in setting property tax rates and addressing property tax challenges. Specifically, the bill grants cities and towns two key powers: first, the discretion to determine their own residential tax rate factor shift and decide how much of the tax levy will be paid by different property classes (commercial, industrial, and personal property), without being strictly bound by the commissioner of revenue's guidelines; and second, the ability to impose higher tax rates on properties that have been registered as derelict or abandoned for at least five consecutive years. Additionally, the bill allows municipalities to apply to the commissioner of revenue for hardship relief to cover tax levy shortfalls, with the application limited to no more than 5% of the total tax levy amount. This legislation aims to give local governments more autonomy in managing their property tax structures and addressing long-term property vacancy issues.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4051