Auditor testifies for Homestead Exemption
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
COLUMBUS — Butler County Auditor Roger Reynolds testified before state lawmakers Wednesday, May 21, supporting a bill designed to expand eligibility for Ohio's Homestead Exemption Program.
The bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Gary Cates, R-Ohio, would extend property tax relief to senior citizens and disabled Ohioans living in housing cooperatives and seniors who have created living trusts.
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Last year's state budget bill expanded the homestead exemption to include all disabled Ohioans and those over age 65. But the law excluded some seniors, based on where they live or what type of trust they have established.
"The idea of the original legislation was to help those who own and occupy their homes regardless of their estate planning arrangement," said Reynolds. "(The new bill) would allow the exemptions for homesteads held in irrevocable trusts and, thus, grant previously intended, but currently excluded, citizens to take part in the tax relief."
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2175 jsweigart@coxohio.com.
