House Republican Press Release

April 10, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REPRESENTATIVE O’NEILL COSPONSORS MEASURES TO PROVIDE TAX BREAK FOR SENIORS

The Legislature’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee today approved legislation cosponsored by State Rep. Arthur J. O’Neill (R-Southbury) that would establish a program to provide eligible seniors the opportunity to reduce their property taxes. Senate Bill 751, An Act Concerning The Establishment Of A Senior Citizen Volunteer Services Tax Credit Program, now moves to the full State Senate for consideration.

The legislation would create a volunteer property tax abatement program for homeowners sixty years of age and older. The program would abate their property taxes or the interest on delinquent taxes for volunteer services provided on behalf of a municipality. Such services could involve assisting in local libraries or schools, said Rep. O’Neill.

Those participating in the program would receive a $10 credit toward their property tax for each hour of volunteer service in a given year. Any such abatement would be re-determined on an annual basis.

"I’m pleased the Finance Committee has moved this bill forward," said Rep. O’Neill.  "There are certainly people over age sixty who would be willing to provide volunteer service for their community in exchange for a reduction in property taxes. This legislation could benefit many people on fixed incomes, who are among those most needing a tax break."