DOVER – Properties across Delaware’s three counties, New Castle, Kent and Sussex, haven’t been reassessed in decades – 1983, 1987 and 1974 respectively – and the state currently has no statute dictating the timeline for those reassessments, although there is a constitutional requirement for periodic property assessments. Hundreds of thousands of properties across the state have vastly differing market values, resulting in funding issue inequities. Fortunately, it’s a problem House Bill 62 aims to solve.
Sponsored by Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton, HB 62 would mandate that properties be assessed every five years. The reasoning, according to Rep. Wilson-Anton, is so that the state can be fairer in its taxation structure, ensuring that property owners finally have parity.
“Right now, people are paying too much, some too little, and others the correct amount,” said Rep. Wilson-Anton, D-Newark/Bear. “This legislation was drafted to ensure we don’t go another three decades with outdated property values that result in inequitable county and school funding streams.”
In its 2020 landmark ruling, the Court of Chancery upheld that Delaware’s existing property tax system violated the Delaware Constitution. The case, brought forth by educational and civil rights advocates, drew much attention.
While at the time the court wasn’t definitive in its remedy, continuing litigation between parties resulted in agreement that the counties would undertake reassessment. The statewide reassessment process for New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties is estimated to be complete by 2025.
“Our school funding system isn’t just outdated; it’s inequitable,” said Sen. Tizzy Lockman, Senate prime sponsor of HB 62. “The way we fund our schools does not account for the additional needs of children living in poverty and English language learners. In my years working with community advocates and education stakeholders, we have long known that regularly reassessing property values will help to stabilize school funding across the state.”
HB 62 has been assigned to the House Housing Committee. Rep. Wilson-Anton is hopeful that the bill will move quickly from committee to the House for consideration.
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