The House of Delegates unanimously approved a bill Monday aimed at helping Baltimore retain more homeowners.
The measure, which goes now to the Senate, would let city homeowners transfer a portion of their Homestead tax credit from their old dwelling to a new property for several years. It is part of a five-bill package pushed by Del. Maggie McIntosh, a Baltimore Democrat, which aims to look for ways to reduce the city's high property tax rate, which is at least double that of surrounding counties.
Three related bills previously passed the House. One would require nonprofits in the city to certify their continuing ownership and use of tax-exempt buildings. A second would study whether homeowners and owners of rental and commercial properties bear comparable tax burdens. A third would look at whether the city could reduce the value of the Homestead tax credit at the same time it cuts the property tax rate.