Peach Tree Times

State Representative Shaw Blackmon has praised the Georgia House of Representatives for passing House Bill 92, a legislative measure aimed at providing property tax relief to homeowners across the state. As Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Blackmon expressed his support following the bill's passage.

"Today, the Georgia House reaffirmed our commitment to providing Georgia homeowners with relief from excessive property tax increases with the passage of HB 92," said Blackmon. He noted that voters had already shown strong support for this initiative in November, yet some local governments continue to opt out despite having sufficient revenue and resources. "I, along with many other members of the Georgia House, stand ready to ensure Georgia taxpayers receive the tax relief they voted for."

House Bill 92 seeks to extend the deadline for local governments to participate in the base year homestead tax exemption until March 31, 2025. This measure aims to protect homeowners from steep property tax hikes. The exemption was approved by voters in all 159 counties during last year's ballot.

Blackmon highlighted that similar exemptions have been implemented successfully in other states and over 60 local governments within Georgia without financial strain. "While this exemption will not decrease the property taxes paid, it will protect homeowners from sudden, large increases that can happen when home values rise sharply beyond typical inflation levels," he added. Encouraging local governments not to opt out of this measure, Blackmon emphasized its role in offering tailored protections and community stability.

The full text of HB 92 is available online.