Bill > SB382

This bill makes the state-wide base year homestead exemption, which is a property tax break for homeowners, mandatory for all local governments in Georgia, meaning they can no longer opt out of offering it. It also removes a requirement that local governments must have this homestead exemption in place before they can hold a referendum to approve a special district option sales and use tax, a tax used for specific local projects. Additionally, the bill adjusts how the "roll-back rate," which is the rate at which property taxes are reduced to offset increased property values, is calculated annually, allowing for reductions based on tax proceeds received through June 30 of the current taxable year. These changes are intended to streamline tax relief and the process for implementing local sales taxes, with specific provisions taking effect in 2026 for the homestead exemption changes.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72161