Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8436

Introduced
4/10/26  

Caption

Amends the current statute governing exemptions from property taxes for elderly and the disabled in the town of Glocester.

Impact

This amendment seeks to potentially increase the financial relief available to vulnerable populations within Glocester by allowing for a more dynamic adjustment of the tax credits based on economic conditions. By eliminating certain income qualifications, the bill offers a broader range of residents access to tax relief. This change is particularly significant in responding to cost-of-living adjustments, which can heavily impact fixed-income populations such as the elderly and those with disabilities.

Summary

House Bill H8436 aims to amend existing taxation laws specifically related to exemptions from property taxes for elderly and disabled residents in the town of Glocester, Rhode Island. The bill allows the town council to provide tax credits for real property owned and occupied by individuals aged 65 or older, as well as those who are permanently disabled. The proposed tax credit is structured in such a way that it can be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all urban consumers, thereby ensuring that the values of the tax credits remain relevant in relation to inflation.

Conclusion

Overall, House Bill H8436 reflects an important legislative effort to adapt the tax structure in favor of those who are most affected by economic changes, particularly in the context of housing stability. The inclusion of automatic adjustments based on the CPI not only makes the legislation forward-thinking but also prompts ongoing discourse about financial sustainability for local governments with respect to taxing policies.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding H8436 is the balance between providing necessary tax relief to individuals in need and the implications that such exemptions may have on local government revenues. Critics may argue that while the motivation behind the bill is commendable, there should be a consideration of the town’s ability to fund essential services that could be affected by decreased property tax revenues. Additionally, discussions may arise around the effectiveness of tax credits as a solution to financial hardship, especially if the overall fiscal health of the municipality is compromised.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S1155

Authorizes the town of Glocester to levy a supplemental tax, by voter referendum, that exceeds the current tax cap by three percent (3%) for fiscal year 2026, to fund school operations and avoid the loss of critical town services.

RI H6409

Authorizes the town of Glocester to levy a supplemental tax, by voter referendum, that exceeds the current tax cap by three percent (3%) for fiscal year 2026, to fund school operations and avoid the loss of critical town services.

RI H6011

Removes state-owned property from property exempt from local property taxes.

RI H5194

Increases the income range up to $50,000 and tax credit up to $850, for elderly and disabled persons who own or rent their homes.

RI H6371

Exempts from taxation real and tangible personal property of Little Flower Home, provided it remains a qualified tax-exempt corporation pursuant to § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, by amending the address from former location to current location.

RI S0027

Increases the income range up to fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) and tax credit up to eight hundred fifty dollars ($850), for elderly and disabled persons who own or rent their homes.

RI S0098

Provides tax credits or the equivalent assessment dollars to veterans, gold star parents, visually impaired persons and the elderly.

RI H5370

Provides tax credits or the equivalent assessment dollars to veterans, gold star parents, visually impaired persons and the elderly.

RI H5309

Increases the minimum veterans’ exemption from one thousand dollars ($1,000) to six thousand dollars ($6,000) with respect to municipal taxes.

RI H6216

Grants an exemption from the four percent (4%) property tax levy cap to the town of Jamestown.

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