Georgia Rep. Carmen Rice Applauds House Passage of Homestead Exemption for Disabled Veterans

Earlier this month, House Bill 52, sponsored by State Representative Carmen Rice, successfully passed out of the Georgia House of Representatives on Crossover Day. The bill aims to update and expand homestead exemptions for disabled veterans, marking a significant step toward supporting Georgia’s military heroes and their families.

Rep. Rice, who represents District 139, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from her colleagues. “I am grateful for the support of my colleagues in the Georgia House of Representatives in advancing this much-needed legislation that will provide significant benefits to Georgia’s disabled veterans and their families,” Rice said. “House Bill 52 represents an important step in ensuring that the brave men and women who have made tremendous sacrifices for our country, along with their families, receive the ongoing support they rightfully deserve.”

The bill proposes to extend a homestead exemption to the un-remarried surviving spouse or minor children of a disabled veteran, ensuring that the exemption remains available even if the surviving spouse or children move to a different county within Georgia. This would eliminate the need for surviving family members to reapply for the exemption, providing continued financial support for those who have lost a loved one in service to the nation.

House Bill 52 also clarifies provisions regarding eligibility and retroactive awards, ensuring that the exemption remains intact for veterans, surviving spouses, and minor children as long as they continue to own and occupy the home as their primary residence.

Under current law, disabled veterans receive a homestead exemption for up to $50,000 from ad valorem taxes. The new bill seeks to ensure that the surviving family members of disabled veterans receive the same benefit, regardless of where they choose to live in the state.

The bill has now moved to the Senate for consideration. If passed, it will be submitted for approval by Georgia voters during the November 2026 general election. If approved, the legislation would take effect on January 1, 2027.

Rep. Rice’s legislative colleagues who have co-sponsored the bill include Reps. Angie O’Steen, Matt Reeves, Chas Cannon, and Josh Bonner.

“As we continue to honor our veterans for their service, it is essential to provide the necessary resources to support them and their families,” Rep. Rice added. “This bill is a crucial step in ensuring that Georgia’s disabled veterans are never forgotten, and that their families receive the benefits they deserve.”