🎧 Listen to This Article
Ohio seniors could see a significant tax break under new legislation introduced by State Sen. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield). This would slash property taxes in half for homeowners aged 65 and older, regardless of their income.
The proposal, estimated to cost $1.5 billion annually, would be funded entirely from the state’s $100 billion general revenue fund. It marks a significant push to shield elderly Ohioans from rising property taxes that lawmakers say are forcing many on fixed incomes out of their homes.
“We are taxing the elderly out of their homes,” Cutrona said. “This is a clean 50% reduction, no strings attached. It’s time we take care of our most vulnerable.”
Universal Relief, No Income Test
The bill would supplement existing property tax programs like the homestead exemption, which currently offers an average savings of $400–$500 for qualifying low-income seniors. That program is limited to homeowners 65 or older with annual incomes below $40,000. Cutrona’s bill would remove the income cap entirely—offering equal relief to all seniors, including wealthier retirees.
Critics may question the universality of the benefit, but Cutrona defended the inclusive approach.
“Many seniors are disqualified from the current homestead exemption because of modest pension incomes,” he said. “They earned those benefits. Why penalize them now?”
Funding Without Local Impact
Unlike some tax cuts that shift the burden to localities, this proposal would preserve current funding for school districts, municipalities, and other local taxing entities. The state would fully reimburse the lost revenue from property tax collections.
“It’s not about replacing one tax with another,” Cutrona emphasized. “We’re reallocating existing dollars without raising taxes elsewhere. We can cut the fat from the state budget.”
Cutrona likened the proposal’s scale to other budget line items, noting that state library funding alone totals around $500 million annually. He argues that a senior tax relief program three times that size is feasible within the current budget framework.
GOP Support and Legislative Outlook
The bill has been referred to the Senate Ways and Means Committee and has reportedly received strong support among Senate Republicans. With GOP control of both legislative chambers, the proposal stands a realistic chance of advancing this session.
“This is an excellent step in the right direction,” Cutrona said. “We’ve had long discussions about property tax relief, and the need is clear across Ohio.”
If passed, the measure would position Ohio as one of the few states offering broad-based property tax relief to all seniors, regardless of income, a potentially precedent-setting move in the national debate over aging, equity, and taxation.
For further details, clarification, contributions, or any concerns regarding this article, please get in touch with us at editorial@tax.news. We value your feedback and are committed to providing accurate and timely information. Please note that our privacy policy will handle all inquiries.
