Statement by Speaker Christine C. Quinn:

“Today’s joint Finance and Community Development hearing highlighted a defect in the Real Property Tax Law and we will go to Albany to get it fixed. Homeowners who rebuild their homes, or businesses that rebuild their stores, exactly as they were before a natural disaster struck should not see their tax bills go up in the same way that a homeowner who adds a room or storeowner that expands their showroom. Clearly, one person is improving their property at their discretion and the other is trying restore their life and home after a devastating event outside of their control. This is just plain fairness and it’s a simple, low-cost fix to the law that will make the lives of owners who saw their properties devastated by Sandy just that little bit easier as they recover and rebuild.”

Statement by Finance Chair Domenic M. Recchia, Jr.:

“The defect in real property tax law brought to light today exposes a real injustice being suffered by New Yorkers who are working hard to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of Sandy. Homeowners and small business owners struggling to rebuild their lives and restore our communities in the wake of a natural disaster should not be put in the same property tax category as those homeowners who have the good fortune to make improvements or expansions on their homes. It’s just not right and it needs to be fixed as soon as possible.”

Statement by Minority Leader James S. Oddo:

“I am hopeful that the state legislature will take up this necessary change in law to protect those who lost so much as a result of Sandy. While I would like to see discussions begun about changing the confusing and archaic property tax system as a whole, I understand that conversation will take some time due to the complexity involved. This change we are asking for is simple and will make a real difference.”

Statement by Community Development Chair Albert Vann:

“The law need not be a blunt instrument. When appropriate information is available, we can legislate to draw fine and important distinctions, in the interest of fairness. Distinguishing between owners forced to invest in repairs and those who choose to improve their properties is fair. It makes sense. And we must call on our colleagues in Albany to fix the law to recognize this very real difference.”

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