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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Kevin Murphy
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Murphy bill to help Scranton property owners with their tax billsIs subject of Feb. 4 public hearing
HARRISBURG, Jan. 15 – State Rep. Kevin Murphy, D-Lackawanna, announced that he will co-host a House Majority Policy Committee public hearing on his proposal to help Scranton property owners with their tax bills and delinquent payments.
The hearing will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4 at the University of Scranton, The DeNaples Center’s McIlhenny Ballroom, 900 Mulberry St.
Murphy's bill, H.B. 1942, would require second-class cities, including Scranton, to offer installment payment options for taxes and fees related to delinquent property taxes.
"Scranton residents currently must pay large fees and delinquent real estate taxes in a lump sum," Murphy said. "I believe a payment plan could prevent some homeowners from losing their house to a tax sale if they are unable to pay everything at once."
The bill also would amend the Second Class A City code to require the city of Scranton, Lackawanna County and the Scranton School District to issue separate real estate tax bills. The three entities currently issue a single tax bill, and Murphy said that is confusing to some taxpayers.
"We are trying to develop a bill with the residents of Scranton in mind," Murphy said. "I wanted to vet my bill in public before it is voted on by the full House because it directly impacts them.
"I encourage Scranton residents and officials to attend the hearing if they are able. This is an opportunity to get insight first-hand about my bill, and to offer comments and suggestions."
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