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HB1338 • 2025

Savannah, City of; ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes; homestead exemption; provisions

Savannah, City of; ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes; homestead exemption; provisions

Elections Taxes
Active

The official status still shows this bill as active or still awaiting another formal step.

Sponsor
Stephens, Ron
Last action
2026-02-19
Official status
House Second Readers
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The official text confirms the bill provides for judicial remedies regarding failure to comply with the law.

Savannah Homestead Tax Exemption Cap

This bill changes how the City of Savannah calculates property tax breaks for homeowners by freezing a key value used in that calculation at its 2025 level.

What This Bill Does

  • Amends an existing law about homestead exemptions from city ad valorem taxes.
  • Prevents increases to the adjusted base year assessed value of properties above the amount set for tax year 2025.
  • Requires compliance with state constitutional requirements regarding these changes.
  • Provides for a public vote (referendum) on the measure before it takes effect.
  • Sets rules for when the law starts, how long it lasts, and automatic repeal if needed.

Who It Names or Affects

  • Homeowners in the City of Savannah who receive homestead tax exemptions.
  • The City of Savannah government agencies responsible for property taxes.
  • Voters in the jurisdiction required to approve the measure via referendum.

Terms To Know

Homestead exemption
A reduction in property tax bills available to people who own and live in their primary home.
Ad valorem taxes
Taxes based on the assessed value of a piece of real estate or personal property.
Referendum
A process where voters cast ballots to approve or reject a specific law before it becomes active.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The bill text does not state the exact date when this measure will take effect.
  • The source material mentions an automatic repeal but does not specify the conditions that trigger it.
  • Details about how the referendum election must be conducted are mentioned as provided for, but specific dates or procedures are not listed in the summary.

Bill History

  1. 2026-02-19 Georgia General Assembly

    House Second Readers

Official Summary Text

Savannah, City of; ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes; homestead exemption; provisions