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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. W. Curtis Thomas |
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House passes bill to require certification for Philadelphia property assessors
HARRISBURG, July 1 – The state House has passed legislation (H.B. 2302) introduced by state Rep. W. Curtis Thomas, D-Phila., that would require Philadelphia property assessors to be certified by the state.
"Philadelphia's current exemption to the certification act has contributed to reported problems with property valuations performed by the Philadelphia Board of Revision of Taxes," said Thomas, chairman of the House Urban Affairs Committee. "My bill would add a professionalism and accuracy that is lacking in the current system, thereby restoring confidence in the assessment process."
In 66 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties, the Assessors Certification Act requires people with responsibilities related to the valuation of real property to acquire certification from the State Board of Real Estate Appraisers.
Philadelphia is the only county exempt from the requirements of the Assessors Certification Act. House Bill 2302 would remove Philadelphia's exemption, requiring the city to use only certified property assessors.
The certification process requires a minimum of 90 hours of course study related to appraisals and assessments. Certification also requires passing an exam which covers all phases of the appraisal process and assessment procedures established by state law.
Assessors also must complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education in order to maintain certification. The board renews certifications on a biennial basis.
House Bill 2302 now moves to the Senate for consideration.
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