SB1405

Provides a $5,000 homestead exemption for surviving spouses of police officers or firefighters killed in the line of duty.

The bill amends the Property Tax Code to create a homestead exemption for the surviving spouse of a police officer or firefighter killed in the line of duty. The exemption reduces the equalized assessed value of the property by $5,000, effective from taxable year 2026. The exemption applies to property used as the primary residence by the surviving spouse, provided they hold legal or beneficial title, permanently reside there, and do not remarry. If the property is sold, the exemption can transfer to the new owner. The exemption must be reapplied for annually.