Disabled veterans may be getting a big property tax break in California

"“I've seen firsthand the financial challenges many disabled veterans face just trying to stay in their homes,” Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) said Thursday. “We always say we support our veterans, but support has to mean taking meaningful action to make life more affordable for them.”"

"The legislation would apply only to veterans who became disabled as a result of their military service. It defines a fully disabled veteran as one who is blind in both eyes, has lost the use of at least two limbs, or is otherwise incapacitated due to an injury or disease. Surviving spouses would be eligible for the same exemptions, provided they do not remarry."

"The exemptions would sunset in 2032 so legislators could review the bill's effect before deciding whether to enact the policy permanently. California is home to more than 1.8 million former service members, which is the largest veteran population of any state in the nation, according to the most recent census."

"Legal experts question whether the expansion complies with Proposition 13, while proponents argue existing veteran exemptions already provide constitutional authority for the change."

Assembly Bill 2022 would expand California property tax exemptions for veterans who became disabled due to military service. The bill would provide a 50% exemption for residential property owned by fully disabled veterans, and a 100% exemption for those whose household income is $40,000 or less. Fully disabled status would include blindness in both eyes, loss of at least two limbs, or other incapacitation from service-related injury or disease. Surviving spouses could receive the same exemptions if they do not remarry. The exemptions would expire in 2032. The proposal has support from veteran groups and Realtors, while educators raise concerns about reduced school funding. Legal experts question compliance with Proposition 13, while proponents argue existing veteran exemptions already provide constitutional authority.

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