Housing (Seniors)

HB 2917 creates a "Senior Tenant Bill of Rights" for renters aged 60 or older. It requires landlords to provide written leases before move-in, give 30-day renewal notices, maintain safe housing, disclose all fees upfront, and follow clear rent increase guidelines. Seniors can report violations to adult protective services, which will assist with complaints and connect them to legal aid resources. The bill directly affects landlords renting to seniors and aims to standardize tenant protections for this age group.

HB 2491 revises Missouri's rules for senior rental housing subsidies by replacing outdated definitions and creating new income-based categories. It directly affects senior housing projects (buildings with 4+ units built/rehabbed under federal programs and restricted to seniors) and their tenants, particularly those classified as "low income," "moderate income," or "middle income senior" based on HUD income thresholds. Key provisions define terms like "affordable rent" (capped at 30% of tenant income) and require subsidies to "expand affordability" for low-income seniors. The bill updates how the Missouri Housing Development Commission administers these subsidies, ensuring they align with federal housing standards.

HJR 126 proposes a constitutional amendment that would reduce property tax assessments for qualifying seniors and disabled homeowners by 50%. It applies to residential property owned by individuals aged 65+ or permanently disabled under federal/state law, with income under $50,000 (single) or $75,000 (married filing jointly) in the prior tax year. Starting January 1, 2027, such properties would be assessed at 50% of their standard value instead of full value. This amendment requires voter approval in the 2026 election to take effect.

This constitutional amendment resolution proposes to create a real property tax exemption for Missouri seniors meeting specific criteria. It would allow residents aged 65+ who have lived in Missouri for 10 consecutive years to qualify for a tax exemption on their primary home if their income is $100,000 or less (single) or $150,000 or less (married). Surviving spouses aged 55+ who maintain the same residence may also qualify. The General Assembly would set verification rules, exemption caps, and income limits to manage costs, with potential revenue offsets through state grants or adjusted local tax rates.