The Lawrence City Council voted Nov. 6 to adopt clause 22J of Massachusetts law, doubling property‑tax abatement amounts for qualifying disabled veterans who own and occupy property in the city.

Council discussion and assessor testimony clarified the change applies to veterans with at least a 10% disability rating. The new abatement amounts are $800 for veterans with a 10–99% disability rating and $2,000 for veterans with a 100% disability rating. The assessor said approximately 63 veterans would receive the maximum benefit under the revised schedule, and that the city would coordinate with the state Department of Revenue so the change is reflected in tax bills for fiscal year 2026.

Councilors discussed timing and outreach. The veterans department agreed to mail notices to qualified veterans and to work with the tax assessor’s office to identify prior applicants so they receive information on how to apply. Council members asked that the city also use email, phone outreach and local radio to notify veterans about the change.

A motion to adopt clause 22J and double the exemption amounts carried on a roll call vote; recorded affirmative votes included Councilors Levy, LaPlante, Luzon, Marmol, Reyes, Vice President Infante and Council President Rodriguez; Del Rosario was absent.

What’s next: The assessor said the council’s certification will be transmitted to the state and that qualifying veterans can expect the change to be reflected in bills beginning in fiscal year 2026; the assessor noted applicants must be property owners who occupy the residence as their primary home and must file the abatement application during the normal abatement period.

(Quote sources: Chief Assessor and Council deliberations.)