HB 3839 establishes unconditional ownership for owner-occupied residential property in Oklahoma after residential property taxes are eliminated (via State Question 842). It prohibits governments from imposing substitute fees, liens, or assessments that function like tax forfeiture, and bans forced sales for nonpayment of non-tax charges. Homeowners can seek legal remedies, including injunctions or attorney fees, if these protections are violated. The law applies only to residential properties where the owner resides, not commercial or rental properties.
This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to change Oklahoma's homestead property tax rules. Currently, seniors aged 65+ qualify for a tax limit on their primary home only if their household income stays below a yearly threshold set by the federal government. The amendment would eliminate that income requirement while keeping the age limit (65+) and adding a new rule: the homeowner must own the property free of any mortgage or debt. It would apply to seniors who meet these conditions and require voter approval through a state question.
This proposed constitutional amendment (HJR 1045) would limit annual increases in the assessed value of primary residences (homesteads) for property tax purposes. It applies to homeowners who have owned and occupied their home for at least 10 years and whose gross household income stays below HUD's low-income threshold for their county. If these conditions are met, the property's tax assessment cannot exceed the value from the 10th year of ownership, even if the home's market value rises. If the homeowner's income exceeds the HUD threshold or they stop living in the home, the tax assessment reverts to standard rules.
SB 1394 creates a refundable income tax credit for Oklahoma residents who receive down payment or closing cost assistance through the Oklahoma Increased Housing Program (OHFA). The credit equals the exact amount of assistance received each tax year, directly benefiting first-time homebuyers using OHFA support. If the credit exceeds a taxpayer's income tax liability, the excess amount is refunded to them. This credit applies to tax years starting in 2027, effective November 1, 2026.
HB 2147 creates a new legal process for Oklahoma municipalities to place liens on non-owner-occupied properties for unpaid housing and building code violations, including fines, penalties, and enforcement costs. The bill allows cities to enforce these liens through judicial foreclosure, requiring property owners to pay the full "lien payoff" (including interest and fees) to avoid losing the property. It specifically excludes owner-occupied homes (such as homesteads or properties occupied by residents) from this enforcement. Municipal code liens rank above most other property claims but below tax liens, and the law establishes clear redemption procedures for owners seeking to retain their property.
SB 288 creates a state income tax credit for Oklahoma National Guard members who buy a home in Oklahoma. It allows eligible members to claim a credit equal to their down payment and closing costs, up to $4,000, for tax years 2026 and later. The credit is refundable (meaning it can be paid even if the member owes no state tax) and limited to one claim per person. To claim the credit, members must submit proof of purchase costs using a form provided by the Oklahoma Tax Commission. This policy directly affects Oklahoma National Guard members purchasing residential property within the state.