By Bob Katzen

The Senate 37-1, approved and sent to the House a bill that would give cities and towns the option to create tax rebate programs for residents who already benefit from a local residential exemption. This new rebate program would allow cities and towns to set income and asset thresholds, tailoring relief to local residents’ needs.

“It is critical that we begin this new year by prioritizing municipal property tax relief,” said sponsor Sen. Nick Collins (D-South Boston). “By advancing these responsible tax relief proposals, we can help ease the burden of rising property tax bills on homeowners without harming small businesses or putting our economy at risk.”

“I voted ‘No’ … because tax classification, exceptions and credits, particularly when novel, should be addressed comprehensively and analyzed in the context of other new proposals and existing law,” said Sen. John Keenan (D-Quincy), the only senator to vote against the bill.

(A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes