By Bob Katzen

Another bill heard by the Revenue Committee would increase from $457 to $1,800 the amount of the real estate tax exemption for blind residents.

Supporters said this exemption has remained at $437 for more than 20 years and has not provided the intended benefit to blind residents.

“I sponsored this bill after being made aware of this issue by a constituent who had received this tax abatement for most of his life,” said sponsor Rep. Angelo Puppolo (D-Springfield). “It does not make sense for a benefit such as this one to lose its value with the US dollar. The figure should be updated to reflect the proportional assistance that was intended to be given to blind residents.”