HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 23

(By Delegates Longstreth, Caputo and Marshall)




Requesting that the Joint Committee on Government and Finance authorize the study of the impact that increasing real estate taxes are having on the middle class, elderly and disabled citizens of this state and to review alternatives to funding education other than from property taxes.

Whereas, West Virginia's elderly population is growing and comprises a major portion of the property tax payers of this state; and
Whereas, West Virginia's homestead exemption is helpful, recent property reevaluations have negated the benefit and many elderly residents are struggling with payment of the increased property taxes resulting from reevaluation; and
Whereas, The low median income of most middle class families in this state is further eroded by the increases in real property taxes so that families are struggling to afford their homes; and
Whereas, It is time for the Legislature to consider a fairer method of providing revenue for the public schools; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the impact increasing real estate taxes are having on the middle class, elderly and disabled citizens of this state and review alternatives to funding public education other than from property taxes; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2008, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with the drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from the legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.