A proposal aimed at expanding property tax relief for veterans is moving forward after receiving strong support in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Legislation introduced by state Rep. Tarah Probst (D-Monroe) would amend the Pennsylvania Constitution to broaden eligibility under Pennsylvania’s Disabled Veterans’ Real Estate Tax Exemption Program. The legislation, known as House Bill 1257, was approved by the House on March 24 with a 193-6 vote, with six Republicans opposed.
According to Probst’s press release, the proposal focuses on removing barriers that have prevented some veterans from receiving relief. Currently, veterans must be classified as 100% disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and have been injured during combat to qualify for exemption on property taxes for their primary residence. The press release also notes that surviving spouses are not explicitly guaranteed coverage under existing rules, leaving some families without support.
The legislation proposes an amendment to the state Constitution that would allow property tax exemption for all veterans deemed 100% disabled, regardless of whether their service was in combat.
“It also would guarantee benefits for surviving spouses of eligible veterans, including those who were killed in action, taken prisoner, or went missing in action,” the press release said.
Local municipalities and school districts would gain the option of exempting veterans with a disability rating below 100% from property taxes.
“After having served our nation with honor and distinction, many members of the United States armed forces encounter unique and difficult circumstances when transitioning from military to civilian life,” Probst said in the press release. “This program is an excellent way to show appreciation to our veterans by providing needed financial relief. We should recognize and assist more disabled veterans by expanding the program’s criteria, as would be the case under my proposal.”
“This is a chance to pay our debt and to demonstrate that Pennsylvania values veterans,” said Probst, who represents part of Monroe County and part of Pike County, in remarks before the House vote.
