Sen. Kahns bill to clarify property tax assessment notices approved

LANSING, MI – May 12, 2009 – (RealEstateRama) — Legislation designed to help make property tax assessment notices easier to understand for homeowners was approved Wednesday by the Michigan Senate, said sponsor Sen. Roger Kahn, R-Saginaw Township.

“Property tax assessment notices are often confusing,” Kahn said. “People have the right to appeal their property tax assessments and you shouldn’t have to know the state’s tax code inside out to comprehend your notice and decide how to proceed. My proposal will help make these notices easier to understand for homeowners across the state.”

Senate Bill 373 will require property tax assessment increase notices to begin with the words: “Notice of change in taxable and assessed value of your property and information regarding your appeal rights,” in the largest font size in the notice.

“Earlier this year I held two public forums to help people understand how to appeal their property tax bills,” Kahn said. “The attendance at those forums showed that this measure is necessary. I hope my bill will allow more people to exercise their right to appeal.”

Kahn’s proposed law has been referred to the House of Representatives for further consideration.