Archuleta urges support for property tax relief bill aiding disabled veterans

(Photo by Brittany Murray/MediaNews Group/Long Beach Press-Telegram via Getty Images)

DOWNEY — State Senator Bob Archuleta is calling on residents across California — including those in Downey — to rally behind a proposed bill that would offer full property tax relief to veterans with 100% service-connected disabilities.

Senate Bill 296, authored by Archuleta, aims to expand California’s existing Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption to match exemptions already offered in states such as Florida, Texas, Virginia, New Mexico, and Hawaii. If passed, SB 296 would provide a full exemption from property taxes for qualifying disabled veterans.

“This legislation is a matter of dignity and stability for those who have sacrificed the most for our state and the nation,” said Archuleta, a U.S. Army combat veteran and chair of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs. “It’s time we do more to ensure our disabled veterans, many of whom are living on fixed incomes, are not left behind.”

In Downey, where many veterans reside, the bill could have significant local impact. According to Census data, more than 1,700 veterans live in the city, with an unknown but notable portion living with service-related disabilities. Supporters of the bill say SB 296 could ease financial burdens and help prevent housing insecurity among this population.

California leads the nation in veteran homelessness, with over 11,000 veterans currently without stable housing, according to federal estimates. Archuleta believes SB 296 is a practical step toward reducing those numbers.

“This is unacceptable,” Archuleta said. “SB 296 is one step toward reducing homelessness and providing much-needed relief for those who honorably served this country.”

The senator is urging Californians — particularly veterans, their families, and advocates — to contact their state legislators and voice support as the bill moves through the Legislature.

For more information or to track SB 296’s progress, residents can visit Senator Archuleta’s official website.