Louisiana Treasurer Proposed Higher Homestead Exemption
State Treasurer John Fleming is seeking to raise the homestead exemption to offset rising property tax burdens for homeowners.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Residential
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Should your state increase homestead exemptions to offset rising property values for homeowners?
Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming has called for an increase to the state's homestead exemption, which has remained unchanged for 46 years. The move aims to provide tax relief for residents facing higher tax bills due to rising home values.
Why it matters
The homestead exemption currently shields only $75,000 of a home's market value from property taxes, a threshold that has not moved since 1980. Adjusting this for inflation would bring the exempt amount to $350,000, significantly reducing the tax liability for many households.
Louisiana currently grants a homestead exemption of $7,500, which shields the first $75,000 of a home's market value from certain property taxes. If adjusted for inflation since 1980, this exemption would rise to $35,000, covering $350,000 in market value.
The players
John Fleming
The Louisiana State Treasurer who is leading the legislative effort to increase the homestead exemption.
The details
Louisiana assesses residential property at 10% of fair market value, with the current exemption subtracting $7,500 from the assessed value. By increasing this exemption, the state could lower the taxable base for homeowners, provided lawmakers reach an agreement that balances taxpayer relief with essential funding for schools, law enforcement, and local government operations. Treasurer Fleming plans to collaborate with state and local officials to draft the final proposal.
Timeline
1980: The homestead exemption was last increased in Louisiana.
November 2025: Texas increased its mandatory residence homestead exemption for school district taxes.
October 14, 2026: Treasurer John Fleming announced his call for an increased exemption.
November 3, 2026: Louisiana voters will consider various property tax-related constitutional amendments.
Money Landscape
This proposal reflects a broader trend of states reevaluating property tax protections as rising valuations increase the tax burden on residents. The effort follows a pattern set by the November 2025 Texas school district homestead exemption increase.
Homeowners should monitor upcoming legislative sessions for proposed changes to their property tax assessment formulas. Consider discussing how a potential shift in your local tax liability might affect your annual housing budget with a qualified financial or tax professional.
The takeaway
Legislators are now weighing whether to modernize the 46-year-old homestead exemption to better reflect current home values. Keep an eye on local ballot measures and state legislative updates, as these shifts can significantly alter the property tax portion of your monthly or annual housing costs.
Further reading
For more on property valuations and tax policy, read our coverage of Residential.
Live Poll
Should your state increase homestead exemptions to offset rising property values for homeowners?
