By Bob Katzen

The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to a bill that would allow local cities and towns to impose a property tax cap for some homeowners ages 65 and older.

The cap would freeze the property tax at its current rate if the senior has a federal adjusted gross income of no more than $50,000 for a single income household, and $60,000 or less if married; and assets of $75,000 or less not including his or her primary residence and motor vehicle.

“I sponsored this bill because homeowners who are 65 and older and living on fixed incomes should not be forced out of their homes by rising property taxes,” said sponsor Rep. Adrianne Ramos (D-North Andover). “Many seniors have spent decades contributing to their communities, and they deserve stability and predictability as they age. By limiting property tax increases for those who meet reasonable income and asset thresholds, this bill targets relief to the homeowners who need it most while maintaining fairness for taxpayers overall.”