Rep. Tom Bennett (R-Pontiac) | Photo Courtesy of Rep. Tom Bennett website
Rep. Tom Bennett (R-Pontiac) | Photo Courtesy of Rep. Tom Bennett website
Sen. Tom Bennett (R-Morris) is pushing legislation to help the families of veterans with their property taxes.
“Veterans and their families make incredible sacrifices to protect their country and keep us safe,” Bennett said in a press release. “This legislation is designed to make sure that they receive the benefits that are rightfully owed to them.”
Filed by Bennett, Senate Bill 1534 fixes an issue with homestead exemptions for veterans, under which if a veteran with a spouse dies while their veteran’s homestead exemption is under review, the review will continue, and if the exemption is granted for the veteran, then it will be granted to the surviving spouse.
Currently, a disabled veteran can apply for reduced or be entirely exempt from property taxes on their home, however, if a veteran with a spouse dies while their veteran’s homestead exemption is under review, the exception will not be granted. Senate Bill 1534 seeks to address that, granting the exemption to the surviving spouse.
“This change could offer vital assistance to the families of veterans, especially when they are dealing with the loss of a loved one,” said Bennett.
The Illinois Senate Revenue Committee recently approved the measure unanimously. It now awaits action by the full Senate.
Bennett was recently chosen by Republican party chairs from the 53rd District’s 14 counties to serve a two-year term until the next election, replacing Sen. Jason Barickman, who abruptly resigned from his seat after winning another term in November. Barickman said he wanted to spend more time with his family and at his law practice
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