Mike Cameron Says Democrats Blocking Property Tax Relief Effort
ATLANTA, Ga. — Debate continues at the Georgia Capitol over Senate Bill 33, legislation that would allow local governments to seek voter approval for property tax relief through a dedicated one-cent sales tax.
According to State Representative Mike Cameron, more than 100 counties across Georgia were prepared to move forward with the property tax relief option.
Supporters say the legislation would give local voters the ability to decide whether to reduce property taxes and replace the lost revenue with a penny sales tax dedicated solely to property tax relief. Under the proposal, any revenue generated would be required to offset property taxes dollar-for-dollar and could not be used for new government spending.
Cameron criticized Democratic lawmakers for opposing the measure.
“Democrats are being obstructive — they have no plans to help working Georgians,” Cameron said. “The Democrats are afraid if tax relief is on the ballot in November, people will come out in large numbers to vote and that would hurt their candidates. It’s quite shameful, what they’re doing.”
Opponents of the bill argue the proposal could shift more of the tax burden to renters and consumers while raising concerns about potential impacts on local government revenues and services.
The legislation remains pending after lawmakers took no final action during Saturday’s special session. If approved by the General Assembly and signed into law, cities and counties could decide whether to place the property tax relief referendum before voters in 2028.
Supporters say the measure is about giving local communities another tool to address rising property taxes, while opponents continue to question its potential effects on taxpayers and local governments.