SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) has sponsored legislation to increase the Senior Homestead Exemption, otherwise known as the “Senior Freeze,” and increase the General Homestead Exemption. HB 1563 and HB 1746 strive to make homeownership more affordable, particularly for seniors and people living on a fixed income.
HB 1563 was drafted by Rep. Meier and would give seniors much-needed financial support by increasing the income limit to qualify for the Senior Freeze from $65,000 to $75,000. This would allow for more seniors to benefit from property tax relief, as home values continue to rise.
HB 1746 is cosponsored by Rep. Meier and would raise the maximum reduction for the General Homestead Exemption to $10,000 in all counties in Illinois. The current General Homestead Exemption is $6,000 outside of Cook County and the Chicago Metropolitan area.
“It’s no secret that we need property tax relief,” said Rep. Meier. “Illinois has among the highest property taxes in the country, and my constituents need relief. These two bills would have a direct impact on folks in our communities. For too long, Southern Illinois has taken a back seat to Chicago and is often forgotten by Chicago politicians. I won’t let that happen.”
HB 1563 and HB 1746 are moving through committees. Both bills have been assigned to the Property Tax Subcommittee and are scheduled to be heard this week.
State Representative Charlie Meier represents the 109th District which includes portions of Bond, Clinton, Madison, St. Clair, and Washington counties. For more information, please visit CharlieMeier.net or contact Rep. Meier’s district office at 618-651-0405.