SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Robert Martwick’s (D-Chicago) legislation creating property tax exemptions of up to $5,000 for police and firefighters with qualifying duty-related disabilities passed the Illinois Senate on Wednesday.

“First responders put their lives at risk everyday to protect all of us and our families,” Martwick said. “This bill provides some much needed tax relief for those first responders who have become injured and disabled while serving.”

Senate Bill 1572 creates a property tax homestead exemption of up to $5,000 for police officers and firefighters with qualifying duty-related disabilities. Such exemptions would only apply if their homes have an assessed value of less than $250,000.

The legislation also specifies the injuries and/or disabilities that a police officer or firefighter must suffer from in order to qualify for the exemption.

The measure also addresses how surviving spouses may continue to receive the exemption following the death of the qualified police officer or firefighter.

The Senate has passed SB 1572, and this legislation will now move to the Illinois House for further consideration.

###