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House approves tax-relief measure for property damage assessments after Helene
Summary
The House passed Senate Bill 7 to provide assessment and tax relief for property owners whose property was damaged in the Helene floods; sponsor described a grant equal to roughly 130% of reassessed taxes for damaged properties and said the measure is a first step for affected residents.
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee House on Jan. 30 approved Senate Bill 7, a measure intended to help property owners recover from flood damage by creating a process for reassessment and a grant tied to property tax liability after damage.
Chairman Faizon, the bill sponsor, described personal observations from his district and framed the measure as a modest but necessary form of relief. He said the bill provides for a grant equal to roughly 130% of what a property owner’s taxes would be after reassessment for damage; he acknowledged it is limited but said it will help some homeowners pay immediate obligations.
“It's not much,” Faizon said on the floor, “...It's not much, but it's something for some people that don't have anything. And I'm pleased that this body has got it this far.” He recounted visiting the Pigeon River with his son after the storm and described volunteer and intergovernmental efforts in the recovery.
The bill also includes mechanisms for reassessment of damaged property and a tax grant that assists owners who have suffered damage. Members praised local mayors, volunteers and nonprofits that helped immediately after the storm. The House adopted the bill following a brief floor exchange and a roll-call vote recorded by the clerk as 97 yeas, no nays.
The bill passed as part of a broader package considered during the special session; members said additional measures and funding could follow in the regular session to expand assistance.
