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NC lawmakers move to overhaul property tax programs as rising home values push many retirees to financial breaking point

Previous Democratic requests for Republicans to permit debate and votes on gun-control measures and others to keep weapons out of the hands of people at extreme risk of becoming violent have been unsuccessful.
(Photo: North Carolina Legislature)
Previous Democratic requests for Republicans to permit debate and votes on gun-control measures and others to keep weapons out of the hands of people at extreme risk of becoming violent have been unsuccessful.

North Carolina seniors could soon see major relief on their tax bills. State lawmakers are currently moving to overhaul property tax programs as rising home values push many retirees to a financial breaking point.

Lawmakers are looking to raise income limits for the state’s homestead exclusion and eliminate strict residency requirements that currently lock many homeowners out of help. Senate Leader Phil Berger has even proposed a one-year freeze on property revaluations to give the General Assembly time to pass these reforms.

Advocates say the changes are vital for seniors choosing between prescriptions and their mortgages. While county officials worry about potential budget gaps, lawmakers call it a necessary step to keep long-time residents in their homes.

Annette is an award-winning journalist based in Eastern North Carolina. Her career includes professional stops across the Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Southeast, recently culminating in a 2026 Region 8 Edward R. Murrow Award for Small Market Radio Best News Series for her work on the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Series. Guided by a passion for human-interest storytelling, she focuses on narratives that touch hearts and connect communities. A mother of four and grandmother of two, Annette enjoys reading and creating epic Halloween costumes in her spare time. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.