Massachusetts lawmakers advance property tax relief for disabled veterans and streamline exemptions

The Joint Committee on Revenue of the Massachusetts Legislature convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss significant legislative proposals aimed at easing the property tax burden on veterans. The meeting highlighted two key bills designed to streamline tax exemption processes for veterans and provide financial relief to disabled veterans.

One of the primary discussions centered around a proposed bill that would eliminate the annual requirement for veterans to reapply for property tax exemptions. Currently, veterans must file each year to maintain their exemptions, despite their veteran status being permanent. This requirement has been criticized for placing an unnecessary burden on veterans, many of whom may forget to file and consequently miss out on benefits. The proposed change would allow veterans to file once and retain their exemption until their status changes, such as in cases of disability. This legislation aligns with the HERO Act, which aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for veterans seeking tax relief.

Another significant proposal discussed was Senate Bill 2046, which seeks to grant property tax exemptions to disabled veterans based on the percentage of their service-connected disability as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. With approximately 35,000 senior veterans with disabilities residing in Massachusetts, the bill aims to alleviate the financial strain caused by rising property taxes. The legislation also includes provisions to ensure that municipalities are reimbursed by the state for any lost tax revenue due to these exemptions.

Committee members expressed strong support for both bills, emphasizing the importance of providing tangible assistance to veterans who have made significant sacrifices for their country. The discussions underscored a commitment to improving the lives of veterans and ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve.

The committee is expected to report favorably on these bills, which could lead to significant changes in how property tax exemptions are administered for veterans in Massachusetts. The proposed legislation reflects a broader commitment to supporting veterans and addressing the challenges they face in maintaining affordable housing.