Posted: | February 3, 2021 10:02 AM |
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From: | Representative Robert Freeman |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Tax Exempt Properties |
In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation that would provide a dedicated state funding source to municipalities that have 15% or more of its overall assessed property value as tax-exempt properties within their municipal borders. This legislation would establish the Tax Exempt Property Municipal Assistance Fund using the revenue generated from the 18% Liquor Tax, levied on all wine and spirits in Pennsylvania, to provide funding to municipalities with high levels of tax exempt properties. Municipalities with high levels of tax-exempt properties are facing difficult fiscal decisions. A shrinking tax base makes it difficult for some to provide the basic services expected from local government. By providing annual funding to these municipalities, we can stabilize their fiscal situation and enable them to maintain essential basic services to ensure the health and safety of their citizens. This program would be particularly beneficial to Act 47 communities, county seats, cities, and any community with a major institution of higher learning, a large non-profit health care facility, or considerable state forest or game land. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. |
Introduced as HB1702