My Plan To Double Star Rebates For Most Homeowners And Triple Rebates For Seniors In 2008

The property tax is the tax that all of the experts agree is hurting every region of this State. I am fighting to provide meaningful property tax relief because I recognize how hard New Yorkers have to work just to pay their property taxes.

As my top priority for 2008, I have joined my colleagues in the Senate Majority in introducing a multi-billion dollar property tax relief plan that would double the size of the current STAR rebate for most homeowners and triple the size of the STAR rebate for seniors next year, while abolishing the current income eligibility thresholds instituted last year by Governor Spitzer.

Under our comprehensive tax relief plan, the average eligible, non-senior homeowners would receive a 2008 STAR rebate check double the size  of their 2007 STAR rebate check, while their 2009 STAR rebate check would triple in size .  Homeowners that did not receive a check last year would receive a rebate check double the size of the average check of the top qualifying income bracket under the current system.

Meanwhile, senior homeowners  would receive a 2008 STAR rebate check triple the size  of their 2007 STAR rebate check, while their 2009 STAR rebate check would be roughly four times the current amount .

Our plan also includes a proposal which could result in the complete elimination of residential school property taxes in school districts that vote to phase out property taxes over five years, with revenue replaced by additional State funding.

Taxpayers need help and I am working to ensure that they get the tax relief they need and deserve.   Visit my web site  for more information regarding the Senate Majority’s 2008 Property Tax Relief Plan.

Sincerely,

Joe Robach
State Senator