New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill ACR171

Introduced
12/15/22  

Caption

Proposes constitutional amendment to authorize municipalities to provide property tax credit of up to 100 percent for primary residence of volunteer firefighter or volunteer first aid squad member.

Impact

If approved by the voters, the amendment would modify Article VIII, Section I of the New Jersey Constitution, specifically allowing local governing bodies to enact ordinances that could exempt a significant portion, if not all, of a volunteer's property tax obligation. Such a financial incentive could have substantial implications for local government revenues, potentially leading municipalities to adjust their financial plans or budgets to accommodate this new responsibility. The provision underscores the importance of sustaining volunteer services in communities, particularly in areas where first responders are vital for public safety.

Summary

Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 171, introduced in December 2022, proposes a constitutional amendment in New Jersey that allows municipalities to provide a property tax credit of up to 100 percent for the primary residences of volunteer firefighters and members of volunteer first aid squads. The initiative is designed to recognize and incentivize the commitment of individuals who serve as first responders, acknowledging their essential contributions to community safety. By offering this tax relief, the bill aims to attract more residents to consider volunteering in these critical roles.

Contention

There may be varying opinions about the amendment, particularly regarding its potential impact on local tax revenues and municipal budgeting. Supporters argue that the tax credit would provide necessary support for volunteers who dedicate their time to serving their communities, enhancing their morale and recruitment rates. On the other hand, critics might express concerns about the financial strain on municipalities and the fairness of potentially reducing property tax income. Ultimately, the bill will be presented to voters at the next general election, where public support will determine its fate.

Companion Bills

NJ SCR148

Same As Proposes constitutional amendment to authorize municipalities to provide property tax credit of up to 100 percent for primary residence of volunteer firefighter or volunteer first aid squad member.

Previously Filed As

NJ ACR97

Proposes constitutional amendment requiring Legislature to enact statute authorizing $200 property tax credit for primary residence of volunteer firefighter or first aid squad member.

NJ ACR31

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing municipalities, by ordinance, to provide partial property tax exemption on primary residence of certain volunteer first responders.

NJ SCR64

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing municipalities to provide partial property tax exemption of up to 15 percent of assessed value for primary residence of certain volunteer first responders.

NJ ACR75

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing municipalities to provide partial property tax exemption of up to 15 percent of assessed value for primary residence of certain volunteer first responders.

NJ SCR129

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing municipalities, by ordinance, to provide partial property tax exemption on primary residence of certain volunteer first responders.

NJ A2502

Provides $1,000 income tax deduction for certain volunteer firefighters and members of first aid and rescue squads.

NJ S1133

Allows certain volunteer firefighters, rescue and first aid squad members to claim $5,000 income tax deduction.

NJ A117

Allows certain volunteer firefighters, rescue and first aid squad members to claim $5,000 income tax deduction.

NJ S1868

Allows certain volunteer firefighters, rescue and first aid squad members to claim $500 income tax deduction.

NJ SCR101

Proposes constitutional amendment to provide property tax exemption for primary residence owned and occupied by surviving spouse of first responder who dies in line of duty.

Similar Bills

TX HB9

Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a portion of the appraised value of tangible personal property that is held or used for the production of income.

NJ S2025

Increases gross income tax relief based on rent constituting property taxes for residential tenants and establishes refundable gross income tax credit in place of gross income tax deduction for residential tenants.

NJ A2680

Increases gross income tax relief based on rent constituting property taxes for residential tenants and establishes refundable gross income tax credit in place of gross income tax deduction for residential tenants.

NJ A2684

Increases, from 18 percent to 30 percent, amount of rent constituting property taxes for purposes of gross income tax deduction for certain tenants.

FL S1510

Homestead Property Exemptions and Assessment Limitation

NJ A2656

Increases, from 18 percent to 30 percent, amount of rental payments defined as rent constituting property taxes for purposes of deduction from gross income for property tax payments.

NJ SCR101

Proposes constitutional amendment to provide property tax exemption for primary residence owned and occupied by surviving spouse of first responder who dies in line of duty.

NJ ACR86

Proposes constitutional amendment to provide property tax exemption for primary residence owned and occupied by surviving spouse of first responder who dies in line of duty.