St. Paul — Representative Chris Gerlach has authored a bill in the Minnesota House that would give eligible seniors a freeze on property tax rates. The bill would prohibit an increase in estimated market value for senior-owned homesteads.
"When the estimated market value of a senior citizen's home goes up, their property taxes go up," Gerlach said. "It's a tax increase they can't control, and often times can't afford. This bill would put a freeze on this kind of tax increase."
To qualify, a homeowner needs to be at least 65 years of age and, if living with a spouse, both must meet the age requirement. The resident must have owned the home for at least 15 years and their yearly income, combined or alone, cannot exceed $40,000. With all requirements met, a resident would then be able to apply for the proposed valuation freeze on their property tax.
"Property tax increases based on market value do take into consideration the person's ability to pay when they are living on a fixed income," Gerlach said. "This bill will help keep our lower-income seniors from getting taxed off their property."

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March 5, 2003