SPRINGFIELD – Legislation that would extend the homestead property tax exemption to individuals in supportive living facilities was passed in the Illinois Senate today. Senate Bill 1887 would extend the property tax homestead exemption to seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities living in a supportive living program

Currently, an individual can be awarded the homestead exemption when they become a resident of a nursing home and still own their original place of residence.

State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) is the legislation’s sponsor.

“This is a crucial step in guaranteeing that our citizens are being treated fairly by the tax system,” Koehler said. “That is why I believe we should extend this exemption to individuals in assisted living facilities the same way we do for nursing homes.”

The measure now moves to the House of Representatives.