Coal Region News

State Representative Doyle Heffley of Carbon County has voiced his frustration over a recent vote in the Pennsylvania House concerning property tax relief. Heffley, known for his advocacy on this issue, criticized the timing of the bill aimed at easing property taxes for Pennsylvanians, labeling it as politically motivated.

"Property tax relief is an issue I've long been passionate about, and this bill is one I have introduced and supported repeatedly. Unfortunately, this vote comes far too late to make a real difference," Heffley stated. "This is a political stunt, pushed through less than a month before a major election, and it's clear the majority is more focused on scoring points in campaign mailers than helping homeowners."

The legislation in question seeks to amend the state Constitution to allow local taxing authorities outside Philadelphia and Allegheny counties to offer property tax abatements under the Longtime Owner-Occupant Program (LOOP). Currently limited by constitutional provisions, LOOP provides tax relief for homeowners who have lived in their properties for ten years or more and face increased taxes due to neighborhood revitalization.

Heffley's proposed legislation aligns with House Bill 2536 but includes a key difference: it would not permit taxing authorities to raise millage rates to counterbalance the provided relief. The process for amending the Constitution involves multiple stages including legislative approval across sessions and public advertising before reaching voters as a referendum.

With less than 30 days remaining before elections, Heffley highlighted that there isn't sufficient time for the amendment process to be completed effectively. Despite his concerns about timing, he reiterated his support for providing property tax relief.

"I voted for this bill because Pennsylvanians need property tax relief," Heffley said. "But I'm disheartened that it has come to this – a gesture months too late to help those who need it most."

For further inquiries, Huntre Keip from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives can be contacted at 717-772-9837 or via email at hkeip@pahousegop.com.