By Bob Katzen

The Senate 36-1, approved an amendment to 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.

Amendment supporters said the amendment, sponsored by Sen. Nick Collins (D-Boston), would boost the existing senior property tax exemption by giving municipalities the option of further expanding eligibility by lowering the age eligibility, raising the income eligibility, raising the asset eligibility and raising the limit of possible exemption from $1,000 to $1,500.

“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 amendment.

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

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes