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INDIANAPOLIS – As Indiana’s legislative session nears its April 29 deadline, property taxes are once again a major focus. With significant decisions ahead, House Speaker Todd Huston and Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray have laid out a more detailed vision for how Hoosiers’ 2026 property tax bills will be reduced compared to 2025.
At a press briefing on Thursday, the two top lawmakers emphasized their commitment to cutting taxes, though specific figures are still in negotiation. The goal is to ensure that at least 50% of property taxpayers will see a reduction in 2026, with many residents benefiting even more.
Key Details Emerging in Property Tax Plan
Huston set an ambitious target for property tax relief, stating that the new plan would aim for a 90% reduction in property taxes for Hoosiers’ primary residences (homesteads). This means that over 90% of homeowners would pay less in property taxes for 2026 compared to the previous year.
“This is coming together, and we’re working at it,” Huston said, highlighting that more than $1 billion in relief would be allocated over the next three years. While specifics on how the relief will be distributed are still under discussion, Huston expressed confidence in the direction the legislature is headed.
Bray echoed Huston’s sentiment, stating that “most people” would benefit from the tax reductions, and emphasized that the Senate’s version of the property tax reform would prioritize those who need it the most, such as individuals with fixed incomes.
Potential Roadblocks and Governor’s Concerns
Despite the general optimism, challenges remain. Gov. Mike Braun has previously warned that he may veto Senate Bill 1—the Senate’s version of the property tax plan—if it falls short of providing sufficient relief. Lawmakers remain hopeful that the governor will see the value in their efforts, but Bray noted that each branch has its own objectives.
In a related development, Huston mentioned that a controversial bill requiring certain public school districts to share property tax revenue with charter schools may be integrated into the broader property tax reform plan. This change, though contentious, could potentially ease the passage of both bills.
The Legislative Calendar and Budget Deadlines
With the clock ticking toward the end of the session, lawmakers must act quickly. The Senate must finalize the $46 billion state budget by April 10 in order to meet a critical deadline. The budget, which is expected to address funding for K-12 schools, charter schools, Medicaid cuts, and economic development, will likely dominate the remainder of the session.
The session’s final days will also focus on negotiating key compromises before lawmakers aim to adjourn by April 25, avoiding a need for a return after the weekend.
What’s Next for Property Tax Reform?
As Indiana lawmakers continue to negotiate, much remains to be determined. The House will unveil its version of the property tax reform on Monday, April 7 during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing. Expect further discussions on how to balance the needs of taxpayers with the state’s budget priorities.
The potential for meaningful property tax relief in 2026 is high, but with deadlines and significant differences still in play, it remains to be seen how the final deal will unfold.
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