Veterans

HB 285 clarifies rules for New Mexico's existing disabled veteran property tax exemption, directly affecting veterans with service-connected disabilities and their surviving spouses who own property. It specifies that veterans must occupy the property as their principal residence to qualify, clarifies how exemptions apply to properties with multiple owners, and streamlines the claiming process by requiring proof of eligibility (including a veterans' services certificate) within 30 days of receiving the county assessor's notice. The bill also adds procedures for claiming the exemption after moving and for protesting denied claims, while ensuring the exemption applies only to the highest disability percentage among qualifying owners. It does not change the exemption amount or eligibility criteria but makes the current system clearer and easier to navigate for veterans and local assessors.