SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. — Delaware lawmakers have introduced new bills to provide financial relief to Sussex County residents grappling with the state’s first property tax reassessment in over four decades. The recent reassessment, the first since 1974, has caused property taxes to rise significantly for many homeowners in Sussex County. Some homeowners have seen their property values increase by more than 500%, leading to sharp hikes in tax bills. In response, lawmakers have introduced a series of bills aimed at easing the financial burden on residents. One key piece of legislation, House Bill 242, would allow school districts in Sussex County to adjust tax rates for the upcoming 2025–2026 year. The bill would allow districts to set different rates for residential and commercial properties, with the total revenue collected capped at previous levels to prevent additional tax burdens. House Bill 240 offers another form of relief by enabling residents who have successfully appealed their property assessments to receive refunds for any overpayments of $50 or more. Smaller refunds could be issued at the county’s discretion, ensuring homeowners are not penalized for overpaying based on inaccurate assessments. Another proposed measure, House Bill 241, would provide residential taxpayers with payment plans for any tax increases over $300. These plans would allow homeowners to pay their tax bills in installments over a set period, helping to ease the immediate financial strain. The bill would also reduce tax penalties to 1% per month, aligning Sussex County with neighboring counties. The bills will be considered during a special legislative session on August 12, and lawmakers have indicated that further property reassessment reforms may be introduced during the 2026 session.
