State Rep. Doyle Heffley | Pennsylvania 122nd Legislative District
State Rep. Doyle Heffley | Pennsylvania 122nd Legislative District
State Rep. Doyle Heffley, a Republican from Carbon County, expressed his dissatisfaction with House Democrats this week regarding the timing of a bill intended to provide property tax relief for Pennsylvanians. Although Heffley has a history of supporting such measures, he criticized the motives behind the bill's introduction, suggesting it was a strategic move ahead of an upcoming election.
“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 disputed legislation, House Bill 2536, proposes an amendment to the state Constitution to allow more local taxing authorities to offer property tax abatements under the Longtime Owner-Occupant Program (LOOP), which currently is limited to Philadelphia and Allegheny counties. The aim of LOOP is to aid long-standing homeowners facing increased taxes due to regional revitalization. Heffley has championed a similar measure, with the key distinction being a prohibition on raising the millage rate to offset the relief.
The legislative process for this constitutional amendment involves several steps, including passing twice in consecutive legislative sessions, county-wide advertisements, and eventually securing voter approval through a referendum. Heffley noted that, with less than a month until the upcoming election, the timeline is insufficient for the bill to have any practical effect.
Despite his disappointment, Heffley remains supportive of the bill's objectives. “I voted for this bill because Pennsylvanians need property tax relief, but I’m disheartened that it has come to this – a gesture, months too late to help those who need it most.”
For more information, media contact Huntre Keip can be reached at 717-772-9837 or hkeip@pahousegop.com.
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