(JUNEAU) - Representative Jim Elkins (R-Ketchikan) introduced House Bill 195, a bill that will reimburse over $29 million to communities for losses from the Senior Citizen and Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption.

"The state has not provided reimbursement for these losses at all since fiscal year 1997, and only partial reimbursement was available from fiscal year 1986 through fiscal year 1997. This bill will reimburse the communities for 75% of the estimated cost of the Senior Citizen/Disabled Veteran property tax exemption for fiscal year 2006 and will give immediate local tax relief," stated Representative Elkins.

"I have high hopes that this bill will get good support from the legislature because it effects communities across the state. The reimbursement to my district alone is approximately $690.590.00," noted Representative Elkins.

HB 195 received referrals to the House Community and Regional Affairs and Finance Committees.

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