SUMMARY:  LC 43 1854

This bill would make a number of changes related to property taxes.

The most impactful change is a proposed floating homestead exemption that would be in addition to other homestead exemptions in your local act.  The assessed value of the property would be adjusted each year only by allowing it to increase by one-half the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), if any. From 2019 to 2020 it grew 1.4%, so one-half would be 0.7%.  This change includes all ad valorem taxes including schools.  A number of counties have a floating homestead tax now but they don't always include school taxes. The exemption would not include improvements or additional land.  The exemption would continue until the property is sold. This change requires a 2/3 vote in both chambers and a statewide referendum.

The bill would also extend the period to file an appeal from 45 days to 180.  It would allow a property owner to submit a certified appraisal conducted within the six months prior to March 1 instead of the county valuation.  The Board of Tax Assessors could appeal to the Georgia Real Estate Commission and the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board but otherwise would have to accept it.

A taxpayer would have 10 years to file for a refund of negligently assessed and paid taxes.

Chief appraiser would become an elected position and serve for four years. 

EFFECTIVE DATE:

The ballot question would be on the November 2022 ballot and if passed would be effective in January 2023.

The remainder of the bill becomes effective upon the signature of the Governor or its becoming law without his signature.