Bill > S1413

This bill proposes changes to how local governments in Massachusetts can adjust property tax assessments, specifically concerning "Proposition 2 1/2," a state law that limits the amount of revenue cities and towns can raise from property taxes. Currently, local governments can ask voters to approve an "override," which allows them to exceed these limits for specific purposes. This bill aims to limit the number of override questions that can appear on ballots during state elections, with the local appropriating authority (typically the town or city council) being able to direct no more than three such questions. Additionally, the bill introduces the concept of an "underride," allowing voters to decide if their city or town should be required to assess taxes below the amount permitted by Proposition 2 1/2, with a question placed on the ballot asking if taxes should be reduced by a specified amount. The bill also modifies the process for placing these questions on the ballot, requiring voter signatures for an underride to be placed on the ballot and specifying that the local appropriating authority will direct the placement of override questions.