Increases the enhanced STAR property tax deduction for tax for final assessment rolls to be completed after two thousand twenty-six; provides a total exemption from school taxes for certain persons eighty years of age and older.

New York Senate Bill S00026, introduced in January 2025, aims to provide financial relief to senior homeowners. It proposes two main changes: first, increasing the Enhanced STAR property tax exemption for eligible seniors on assessment rolls completed after 2026; second, granting a full exemption from school taxes for homeowners aged 80 and above. The bill is currently under review by the Senate Aging Committee.

Supporters of the bill argue that it offers much-needed financial relief to senior citizens, helping them manage the rising costs of living and allowing them to remain in their homes. They believe that reducing property tax burdens for older adults is a compassionate and necessary measure.

Critics express concern that the proposed tax exemptions could lead to decreased funding for public schools, potentially affecting the quality of education. They also worry about the financial impact on local governments and question the fairness of providing tax breaks based solely on age, suggesting that it may not address the needs of all low-income homeowners.