Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

For Immediate Release: May 13, 2003

Audio Clip

Senator Jim Reynolds

New Law Aimed at Protecting Disabled from Losing Homes

A measure aimed at ensuring disabled Oklahomans won’t lose their homes because of unpaid property taxes has been signed into law. Senator Jim Reynolds, R-OKC, is principal author of Senate Bill 231, which was co-authored by Representative Kevin Calvey, R-Del City.

Senator Reynolds explained that while the measure doesn’t exempt those individuals from property taxes, it does ensure their homes won’t be sold to pay property taxes.

“Disabled, low-income people can have an especially hard time covering their property taxes at the end of the year. But I think it’s wrong for them face the possibility of being homeless because of it. SB 231 is a way to help them stay in their homes, while ensuring that the county will eventually receive payment for those taxes,” explained Senator Reynolds. The lawmaker passed a similar measure last year aimed at protecting elderly home-owners.

Under SB 231, a person must be totally disabled and designated as low-income as defined by federal guidelines to have their property taxes deferred. In addition, the home must be valued at less than $125,000 and must be their personal residence.

“Once that property is sold or there is any transfer of title, the taxes would have to be paid. But in the meantime, that individual would still have a roof over their head.”

The new law will become effective on November 1, 2003.

For more information, contact:
Senate Communications Division
(405) 521-5774