Jul. 09, 2024
HARRISBURG – Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny) will be voting “no” on
Senate Bill 219, citing concerns over the potential increase in property taxes for seniors and longtime Allegheny County residents. Today, House Democrats voted to table all amendments that would be fairer for all Allegheny County residents.
“I opposed Senate Bill 219 because, if passed by the House, it would allow the city of Pittsburgh to set up a Longtime Owner Occupant Tax Program (LOOP),” said Gaydos. “It would fail to provide necessary protections for seniors who live in the suburbs. By tabling all amendments, the House Democrats have ignored the voices of those who would be most affected by property tax increases.”
Should the House approve the legislation on Wednesday, it would go to Gov. Josh Shapiro for his review.
LOOP would empower the city of Pittsburgh to design a property tax relief plan based for city residents only on years of home ownership and increases in property taxes due. The city would be permitted to exempt or defer the property tax increases of longtime owner occupants.
“With the city of Pittsburgh facing huge financial deficits, this means if this bill becomes law without amendments, property taxes for senior citizens in the suburbs will skyrocket to pay for the taxes not being paid for by those who live in the city. This would be unconstitutional,” said Gaydos.
“I am committed to protecting the interests of longtime Allegheny County residents who live in neighboring communities and will continue to advocate for solutions that ensure seniors can remain in their homes and communities,” added Gaydos. “I urge all residents of Allegheny County to call their legislator to voice to say no to increased property taxes.”
Representative Valerie Gaydos
44th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437
rleiner@pahousegop.com
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