House approves optional property tax exemption to encourage rehabilitation of blighted homes

Representative Chance Henry introduced House Bill 217 to provide an optional ad valorem property tax exemption for rehabilitated blighted residential properties. "This is a carrot, not a stick," Rep. Chance Henry said, describing the measure as an incentive for property owners and local governments to rehabilitate blighted homes rather than simply expand enforcement lists.

Members asked for details about eligibility, municipal versus parish applicability, and whether the exemption could be applied only to properties acquired from government or to existing owners who rehabilitate their properties. Henry and colleagues explained the bill targets residential properties that a municipality has certified as rehabilitated and that municipalities would opt in to the program; the measure also contemplates a constitutional amendment that would send the final question to voters.

Lawmakers pressed on the proposed benefit length — up to a 75% exemption for 20 years for owners who meet the rehabilitation standard — and whether adjacent vacant properties would receive a different schedule. Several technical and friendly amendments were adopted on the floor to clarify appraisal and revenue leverage provisions. The clerk recorded the final vote as 83 yays and 13 nays; the bill was reported finally passed and the author moved to adopt the title.