I am writing to express my support for HB 689, which enables municipalities to adopt a volunteer incentive property tax credit for veterans and elderly individuals who contribute volunteer service to their communities. This bill acknowledges and rewards the invaluable contributions of these individuals, fostering civic engagement while providing meaningful financial relief. However, while I support the intent and objectives of HB 689, I believe the bill is incomplete as currently written. It exclusively benefits property owners, inadvertently excluding renters, who also form a significant portion of our veteran and elderly populations. Many of these individuals, particularly those on fixed incomes, face similar financial pressures and contribute equally to their communities through volunteer work. Given the spirit of fairness and equity, I recommend that the committee consider future amendments to extend similar benefits to renters. This could be accomplished through mechanisms such as rent rebates, municipal grants, or other creative solutions tailored to renters' unique circumstances. Passing HB 689 as written will provide immediate benefits to those it covers, and I support moving it forward with the understanding that this is a foundational step. I urge the committee to commit to exploring additional legislation that addresses the needs of renters, ensuring that all veterans and elderly individuals who volunteer are recognized and supported. Thank you for your consideration and for your continued efforts to improve the lives of New Hampshire residents.
HB689
House · 2025 sessionBipartisanKilled in HouseVolunteer incentive property tax credit
AIEnables municipalities to adopt a volunteer incentive property tax credit for veterans and elderly persons who volunteer.
enabling municipalities to adopt a volunteer incentive property tax credit.
Status
Killed in the House — Inexpedient to Legislate · March 6, 2025- ✓Introduced
- ✕House
- Senate
- Governor
- Law
Division of testimony
13 submissionsWhile I generally support veteran's credits and exemptions for the elderly and or disabled individuals, I don't see being a veteran or an elderly individual should qualify you for volunteer incentive. There are other individuals who volunteer that would love to receive a credit towards their property taxes. Who is going to verify hours volunteered? Does the town have to pay an employee to track hours, verify hours? Honestly, a community can adopt and modify the elderly exemption income and asset requirements, the amount of the exemption and the veterans receive a pretty fair credit. How are young families suppose to afford local property taxes if an ever growing share of the property tax burden is shifted to them. I appreciate the concept but I would urge defeat of this bill.
This bill is well-meaning, but it would be very time consuming for municipalities to administer. It also shifts the tax burden onto those who don't qualify (younger people and non-veterans), further increasing the property tax rate for all property owners.
Position recorded without written comment.
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