A new California ballot proposal is gaining attention across the state — and if it qualifies and passes, it could dramatically change how property taxes work for older homeowners.

The initiative would allow California homeowners age 60 and older to be exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence, a move supporters say would help seniors stay in their homes as housing costs continue to rise.

But critics warn the proposal could significantly impact local services, schools, and county budgets — especially in communities like Jamul and East County San Diego, where property taxes play a major role in funding essential services.

Here’s what homeowners should understand right now.

What Is the California Senior Property Tax Exemption Proposal?

The proposal, which was recently cleared by the California Secretary of State to begin collecting signatures, would:

• Exempt homeowners 60 years and older from paying property taxes

• Apply only to a primary residence

• Require either:

  • At least five years of ownership, or

  • At least 10 years of California residency

If enough signatures are collected by August 4, voters could see the measure on the November election ballot.

Why Supporters Say This Matters for Seniors

Supporters argue the measure is designed to prevent displacement.

Many seniors in Jamul and rural East County are “house-rich but cash-poor.” They may own their homes outright but struggle with rising costs tied to insurance, utilities, and property taxes.

The proposal’s author describes it as a continuation of long-standing property tax protections, calling it a kind of “next step” beyond existing limits on annual tax increases.

The idea is simple: reduce fixed housing costs so seniors can age in place instead of being forced to sell.

Why Counties and Schools Are Raising Red Flags

Local governments see a very different picture.

Property taxes generate roughly $100 billion annually statewide and are the largest funding source for counties and public schools. Fiscal analysts estimate the proposal could reduce local revenues by $12 billion to $20 billion per year, with losses growing over time.

County officials warn this could impact:

• Public safety and emergency services

• Road and infrastructure maintenance

• Elections and local administration

• Parks, libraries, and community services

In areas like Jamul, where services already operate with limited funding, those cuts could be felt quickly.

How This Relates to Proposition 13

California homeowners often ask:

“Doesn’t Proposition 13 already protect seniors?”

Yes — but only partially.

Current law caps annual property tax increases at 2% per year, based on the home’s original purchase price. Some programs already exist for seniors facing hardship, but they are limited and not automatic.

This new proposal would go much further by eliminating property taxes entirely for qualifying seniors, regardless of income.

Will This Actually Happen?

That remains uncertain.

To qualify for the ballot, supporters must collect nearly 875,000 valid signatures — an expensive and challenging process. Political analysts say that hurdle alone could determine whether voters ever see the measure.

If it does qualify, it would likely become one of the most debated tax measures in California in years.

What This Could Mean for Jamul Homeowners Specifically

For Jamul homeowners and families planning ahead, this proposal raises important questions:

• Could this change long-term retirement planning?

• Would it affect decisions about downsizing or selling?

• How might it impact local schools and services that buyers care about?

• Could it influence home values or buyer demand over time?

These are exactly the kinds of questions we’re already hearing from homeowners across East County.

Thinking Ahead? Let’s Talk Strategy

Whether this proposal passes or not, one thing is clear: property taxes, insurance, and long-term affordability are now front-and-center issues for California homeowners.

If you’re 55+, planning for retirement, or considering selling in the next few years, understanding how potential tax changes intersect with today’s market is critical.

If you’d like to talk through how this could affect your home, your equity, or your long-term plans here in Jamul, we’re always happy to have that conversation.

Planning early is how you stay in control — no matter what happens at the ballot box.