Expanded Tax Relief for Veterans, Widows, and Disabled Individuals in Arizona
The passage of a new law in Arizona is set to expand eligibility for a property tax relief program, benefiting numerous veterans, widows, and disabled individuals. This legislative change, enacted this spring, modifies a key component in the eligibility calculation for a statewide personal exemptions initiative.
Historically, the program relied on Arizona’s GDP as a benchmark within the formula to determine eligibility. However, the recent legislation replaces this measure with the Federal House Price Index. Maricopa County Assessor Eddie Cook noted that this adjustment better reflects both the national economy and housing market trends. “So we expect probably about, here in Maricopa County, about 11,000 property owners that may be added to this program,” Cook stated.
Cook, who has served as county assessor for five years, highlighted the complexity of Arizona’s property tax laws, describing them as some of the most intricate in the nation. This year, his office played a pivotal role in advancing four bills through the state Legislature, all of which were signed into law by Governor Katie Hobbs.
However, not all proposed legislation was approved. A bill intended to combat home title fraud by making it a felony to file a fraudulent deed with a county recorder was vetoed by Governor Hobbs. Cook expressed his concerns about the issue, noting, “And that, to me, was like, you got to be kidding. These homes are hundreds of thousands or a million dollars.” Despite acknowledging the seriousness of home title fraud, Governor Hobbs indicated in her veto letter that the proposed bill was not a sufficient solution.
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