Senate bill would block boosting property tax for wind mitigation

While it’s ultimately uncertain what proposals will emerge from the Legislature to eliminate homestead property taxes, a new bill in the Senate would stop homeowners from being penalized for preparing for storms.

Sen. Tom Leek’s SB 434 would stop property appraisers from boosting a home’s “just value” just because the homeowner adopted “changes or improvements made to improve the property’s resistance to wind damage,” which people often do to fortify their properties and lower their insurance costs.

The following would be covered: Strengthening roof decks; creating secondary barriers to block water intrusion; installing wind-resistant shingles, gable-end bracing, storm shutters, and opening protections; and reinforcing roof-to-wall connections.

The bill would take effect in Jul