SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Julie Morrison is leading a measure to allow more veterans to qualify for the Disabled Veterans’ Homestead Exemption.

“People who served in the U.S military should feel appreciated for their service,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Honoring our disabled veterans by lowering their property taxes is one important way of thanking them and their families for their sacrifice.”

Currently the Veterans’ Homestead Exemption allows qualifying veterans to receive a property tax reduction if their home’s value does not exceed a certain amount. However, if the home’s value increases to above the cap, they no longer qualify for any exemption.

House Bill 612 would allow disabled veterans of World War II to receive a 100% reduction in property taxes, no matter their home value. Additionally, it would allow disabled veterans who receive disability compensation or a surviving spouse of a veteran whose death was service-connected to qualify for the exemption of the first $250,000 of their home’s assessed value.

“This measure improves upon the Disabled Veterans’ Homestead Exemption, making it equal for all disabled veterans,” said Morrison.

House Bill 612 passed the Senate Revenue Committee Wednesday and moves to the full Senate for further consideration.