LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – If you’re a senior in Michigan, you’ve likely spent decades paying into the system, only to find that your golden years continue to come with a not-so- golden property tax bill. But Senate Bill 292 is rolling in like a long-overdue refund, and it could finally give seniors the break they’ve earned – by exempting many from paying property taxes altogether.
With inflation gobbling up fixed incomes faster than a bingo hall on Friday night, retirees have been stuck choosing between paying taxes or buying groceries. For those living on Social Security or modest pensions, property taxes aren’t just a nuisance – they’re a budget killer.
Tax relief on the way?
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Enter SB 292, a bill championed by State Sen. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton). The legislation would eliminate property taxes for primary residences owned by residents over 70 years old. The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Finance, Insurance and Consumer Protection for further consideration on May 13. If passed, the legislation would take effect January 1, 2026, for property taxes levied after December 31, 2025.
Michigan seniors deserve a break.
Hoitenga said about the bill, “People across Northern Michigan are feeling the financial burden of high taxes – especially our seniors, many of whom are on a fixed income and have worked their whole lives, only to now face losing their homes due to skyrocketing property tax increases.”
Hoitenga has also clarified that Senate Bill 292 does not require senior citizens to be retired in order to qualify for the property tax exemption. She added, “This bill is a step in the right direction of cutting back the tax burden Michiganders face and sends the message that Republicans want to make life better for our seniors – not worse.”
If Michigan can afford EV handouts, the state can afford to help grandma and grandpa.
Critics have raised concerns about potential “lost revenue,” even though the legislation includes provisions for the state to reimburse local governments using money from the general fund. One could argue that if the state can allocate millions for electric vehicle incentives and consulting contracts, it should be able to cover property tax relief for seniors.
With more than 1.2 million Michigan residents aged 70 and older according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and that number climbing daily, this legislation could bring much-needed financial relief to countless households, particularly those living on a fixed income.
