Committee backs bill to remove yearly recertification for some disabled veterans' property tax exemption

The Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee on Feb. 26 favorably recommended House Bill 124, a measure that would remove an annual recertification requirement for some disabled veterans claiming a property tax exemption. Representative Co, the bill sponsor, told the committee the change reduces burdens for disabled veterans and allows them to "file for that exemption once, and it is done."

Why it matters: Supporters said repeated annual recertification can be difficult while a veteran is coping with a disability. The bill preserves the ability for a veteran to reapply if their exemption increases in the future.

What happened: Representative Co summarized the measure as "very simple and straightforward" and said it amends the requirements for claiming the exemption. The committee took no public testimony and Chair Dan McKay moved to recommend the bill. The committee approved the motion unanimously.

Next steps: Because the committee gave a favorable recommendation, HB124 will move forward in the legislative process to subsequent committee or floor consideration. The sponsor waived summation at committee and there were no amendments recorded at this hearing.