Schenectady County: Proposed Local Law D-2026, the Full Exemption for Seriously Disabled Veterans

Real Property Tax Law 458-a(11) lets a county fully exempt the primary residence of a seriously disabled veteran; see the New York entries on the alternative veterans exemption. Schenectady County's Proposed Local Law No. D-26, introduced by Legislator Vellano: "A LOCAL LAW REGARDING TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR PERSONS WHO ARE SERIOUSLY DISABLED VETERANS." It would add "Section 1. A new Chapter 362 of the Codified Local Laws of Schenectady County, entitled Tax: Real Property - Tax Exemptions for Seriously Disabled Veterans". What it says. "Pursuant to section 458-A of the New York State Real Property Tax Law, the primary residence of any seriously disabled veteran shall be fully exempt from taxation and special district charges, assessments and special ad valorem levies, provided that such veteran meets all other requirements of section 458-A ... and such veteran has met at least one of the criteria set forth in paragraph (a) of this subdivision and the criterion set forth in paragraph (b) of this subdivision." The eligibility it copies from the statute: an honourable discharge, or "a qualifying condition, as defined in section one of the New York State Veterans' Services Law", or "a discharged LGBT veteran", plus "must be considered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service, as evidenced by a letter, official form, or other document sent to such veteran from such Department". "In no case shall the taxable assessed value of the property of a qualifying veteran be reduced below zero." Where it stands. Resolution 162-26 (R82) on the October 13, 2026 regular agenda calls the public hearing: "a public hearing is hereby called upon proposed Local Law No. D-2026 to be held before the Legislature of the County of Schenectady in the legislative chambers in the County Office Building, 620 State Street, Schenectady, New York on the 2nd day of November, 2026 at 7:00 pm." Until the Legislature adopts it and the law is filed, the county's alternative exemption levels rest on the State entries and the city and town assessors.