Allows the town of Tiverton to authorize, by ordinance, a real estate tax credit for seniors over the age of sixty-five (65) years.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would give the town of Tiverton, Rhode Island the legal authority to create a property tax credit specifically for senior residents. Under this proposal, Tiverton's town council could pass a local ordinance that reduces the real estate taxes owed by homeowners who are 65 years of age or older. Importantly, this bill doesn't automatically create the tax credit — it simply gives Tiverton the option and permission under state law to establish one if the town chooses to do so.

The people most directly affected would be senior homeowners living in Tiverton who are 65 or older. If the town moves forward and passes a local ordinance, qualifying seniors could see a reduction in their annual property tax bills, which could help those on fixed incomes better afford to stay in their homes. The town of Tiverton itself would also be affected, as offering this credit could mean collecting less property tax revenue, depending on how the program is structured.

Currently, this bill has been referred to the House Municipal Government & Housing Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in March 2026. The committee has recommended holding it for further study, meaning lawmakers want more time to review and discuss it before moving it forward. No final decision has been made yet.