Oregon lawmakers expand senior property tax deferral program eligibility and outreach efforts

During a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on General Government, discussions centered on improving the Senior Property Tax Deferral Program, which has seen low participation rates among eligible Oregonians. Lawmakers expressed concern over the challenges faced by retired constituents struggling with property taxes and explored ways to make the program more appealing.

The committee highlighted that the current eligibility criteria require seniors to live in their homes for five years before qualifying for the deferral. To address this, a proposal was introduced to reduce the requirement to three years, aiming to make the program more accessible. Additionally, there was a push to increase public awareness about the program, with suggestions for outreach efforts at community events, such as county fairs, where officials noted that many residents engage in conversations about the program.

Further developments included House Bill 3712, which aims to expand the program by raising the income threshold for eligibility from $60,000 to $70,000 and increasing the real market value cap for homes. This bill is currently under review in the Senate Finance and Revenue Committee.

The discussions reflect a broader commitment to support seniors in Oregon, particularly as the state grapples with a housing crisis. By revising eligibility criteria and enhancing outreach efforts, lawmakers hope to ensure that more seniors can benefit from the property tax deferral program, ultimately helping them remain in their homes. As these initiatives progress, the committee remains focused on addressing the needs of the community and improving the quality of life for Oregon's senior residents.