AN ACT RELATING TO TAXATION -- PROPERTY SUBJECT TO TAXATION .

Providence can grant residents property tax breaks

Effective upon passage, the law authorizes Providence's City Council to grant property tax exemptions to qualifying city residents. The council must set the dollar amount by ordinance or resolution; the law sets no amount. Exemptions can cover real estate, personal property, or both. Eligible groups include war veterans, their unmarried spouses, former prisoners of war, and Gold Star parents. Veterans with 100% service-connected disabilities and their unmarried surviving spouses also qualify. Other eligible groups include people who are blind and people who are 100% disabled under Social Security rules. People receiving disability payments from other sources because they are 100% disabled also qualify. Residents age 65 or older qualify, as do residents ages 62–64 who receive Social Security benefits. The law also covers those using the specially adapted housing exemption for veterans with paraplegia. The city can require proof of eligibility; tax savings depend on the council establishing an exemption and setting its amount.