Pryor: HB 1499 is a small step forward for Indiana

House Bill 1499, a bill addressing property taxes in Indiana, passed through the Indiana House of Representatives early this morning. State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis), a long-time advocate for property tax reform, offered the following statement after voting for the legislation:

“During conference committee, the bill was watered down and removed some relief for renters. However, Hoosiers need relief, and I believe this legislation is a small step forward for Indiana. This legislation is neither a fix nor is it a long-term solution, but it is a step forward in addressing Indiana's housing crisis and gentrification.

“The supplemental homestead deduction, the deduction you can claim for your primary residence, will be increased for property taxes to be paid in 2024 and 2025. For homeowners 65 and older, the assessed value limit of their home will be capped at $24,000. For the first time in years the income eligibility for those over 65 will be increased by tying it to Social Security increases. This will allow more elderly Hoosiers to remain in their homes and the communities they helped build.

“There is so much more that needs to be done to help Hoosier homeowners and renters, and I look forward to working with my colleagues over the interim and next session to provide relief. It was my hope that Indiana Republicans would help us work to give Hoosiers more immediate relief, but that unfortunately was not the case.

“Finally, I want to remind Marion County homeowners that you are still able to appeal your assessed value for this year's property tax bill through June 15.”