The measure, sponsored by Rep. John Maher (R-Upper St. Clair), would completely insulate eligible homeowners from school tax increases arising from reassessments.   

Maher said, “No matter how high their new assessments may be, eligible homeowners will not suffer any school tax increase from reassessments.”   

Maher’s proposal would empower school districts in Allegheny County to extend relief to those who are currently eligible for the state’s property tax rebate program.  Generally, those individuals have incomes less than roughly $20,000 per year (technically, $15,000 plus one-half of social security benefits) and are 65 and older, widows and widowers older than 50, and disabled individuals.   

The President of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, Barbara Bolas, endorsed the progress, “to provide relief to those who are most adversely affected by reassessment and have the least means of paying the added cost.”  Ms. Bolas is a Director of the Upper St. Clair School District. 

A breakthrough aspect of Maher’s proposal would be that no new application would be necessary.  The relief would be extended automatically to eligible individuals.  Maher notes that this approach, “Ensures every eligible resident will benefit, eliminates all application headaches for residents, and prevents the creation of any new bureaucracy.” 

The bill won unanimous approval from the full House, resurrecting a proposal that passed the House last fall but died when the Senate adjourned without action.   

Senate action is expected when the Senate returns in March. Quick Senate action is necessary because school boards in Allegheny County (other than the Pittsburgh District) will begin their budgeting process in the spring.