Freeman proposes fairer property tax system
Rep. Robert L. Freeman March 5, 2025 | 12:08 PM
HARRISBURG, March 5 – Homeowners would see a fairer property tax system and needed property tax relief under legislation introduced by state Rep. Robert Freeman.
“It seems that nearly every year, property taxes go up and the bills get more difficult to pay for many families and especially older Pennsylvanians on a fixed income who are struggling to stay in their homes.
“A property tax ‘circuit breaker’ would protect taxpayers from a property tax ‘overload’ just like an electric circuit breaker. A property tax circuit breaker would help stabilize neighborhoods and communities across the commonwealth. By reducing the tax burden, more Pennsylvanians could purchase and maintain family homes,” Freeman said.
The Northampton County legislator’s plan would exempt a taxpayer from paying a portion of real property tax levied by a local taxing authority that exceeds a certain percentage of household income.
Freeman is proposing an amendment to the state constitution that would allow property tax circuit breakers to be used in Pennsylvania.
A proposed constitutional amendment must pass the General Assembly in two consecutive legislative sessions before being placed on the ballot to be considered by the state’s voters.
If the Pennsylvania electorate approves the proposal, Freeman said enabling legislation would need to be passed by the General Assembly and signed by the governor to institute property tax circuit breakers and to set the percentage threshold amount of property tax to household income that would trigger the circuit breaker.
House Bill 816 is expected to be referred to the PA House Finance Committee for consideration.