Gov. Little OKs bill to keep older owners in their homes

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho Gov. Brad Little has signed into law a property tax reduction for higher-valued houses to keep older, low-income Idaho residents in their homes.

The Republican governor last week signed the measure that increases the maximum value of a home that qualifies for the property tax reduction program, called the circuit breaker.

The measure adjusts the maximum value of qualifying residential homes to 150% of the median assessed value in a county.

The bill also allows homeowners to use a $300,000 valuation, which in some counties could cover more homeowners.

Backers said older homeowners with limited incomes need the tax break or they’ll be forced from their homes.