Georgia Legislature passes homestead exemption bill for Statham seniors; Gov. Kemp signs into law

A measure put forward by State Rep. Houston Gaines has cleared both chambers, setting up new City of Statham homestead exemptions for older residents, as reported by the Georgia State House.

The legislation advanced through both the House and Senate by Thursday, April 2, passing with a 153-0 vote in the House and a 49-0 vote in the Senate.

Filed as HB1573 on Wednesday, March 18 in the 2026 regular session of the 158th General Assembly, the bill is formally described as: ’Statham, City of; ad valorem tax for municipal purposes; provide homestead exemption’.

Here is our summary based on the bill text, including explanations for clarity.

The legislation grants new homestead exemptions from City of Statham ad valorem taxes for municipal purposes to older homeowners, excepting taxes for bonded debt. Qualifying residents age 62 or older receive a $20,000 exemption, with an extra $10,000 available for those at least 67. Both exemptions apply in addition to any other city homestead exemptions. Residents only need to apply once with the city, after which renewal is automatic as long as the home remains their primary residence. These exemptions would apply to city taxes beginning with tax years starting on or after Jan. 1, 2027, subject to voter approval in a local referendum in November 2026.

Within the House, 61 Democrats and 92 Republicans supported the bill, with zero votes against.

The Senate vote saw 19 Democrats and 30 Republicans in favor, with no opposition recorded.

The bill lists Rep. Holt Persinger (Republican-119th) as co-sponsor.

Gaines holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia.

Gaines, a Republican, began representing Georgia’s 120th House District in 2023. He succeeded Trey Rhodes as state representative.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed the bill into law on Tuesday, May 12.

In Georgia, the legislative process starts when a legislator, sometimes prompted by a constituent, works with the Office of Legislative Counsel to draft a bill. After submission to the Clerk of the House or Secretary of the Senate, the bill receives a first reading and heads to committee, where most discussion and evaluation occur. If advanced, it goes to the chamber floor for a third reading, further debate, and a vote. Both chambers must pass the bill, and a conference committee may reconcile versions if needed. The governor then has six days during session, or up to 40 days after adjournment (Sine Die), to sign, veto, or allow the bill to become law without a signature. The General Assembly convenes yearly for 40 days starting on the second Monday in January.

Information in this article comes from the Georgia State House. The source data is available here.