Olympia…Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver, has sponsored a bill to allow the deduction of certain costs associated with health care from allowable income for purposes of property tax exemptions and deferrals.

 

The Washington State Constitution and state law allow persons age 61 or older, veterans with a service-connected disability and persons retired because a disability to apply for property tax exemptions and deferrals based on a qualifying income.

 

“Property taxes can force people out of their homes,” Benton said. “Allowing more fixed income people to qualify for exemptions keeps them in their homes.”

 

Benton’s bill would add the following to the list of deductions before qualifying income is established:

·   insurance premiums and co-payments for health care, vision care and dental care;

·   durable medical equipment and mobility enhancing equipment; and

·   insurance premiums for long-term care.

 

Current law allows deductions for prescription drugs and the cost of care for a spouse in a nursing home, boarding home or adult family home.

 

“Property tax exemptions and deferrals for low-income elderly citizens and persons with disabilities are an investment in keeping people vital. My bill would provide real and meaningful property tax relief,” Benton said.

 

Benton introduced the same proposal in 2007, but it was not considered by the majority party. During the November 2007 special session, he tried to amend the proposal onto the I-747 bill, but his amendment was challenged by the majority party and ruled out of order.

 

Benton’s measure, Senate Bill 6880, was referred to the Senate Ways and Means Committee.

 

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Additional Contact: Penny Drost (360) 786-7522 or drost.penny@leg.wa.gov