Authorizes the Freeport Bible Center to file an application for a retroactive real property tax exemption with the village of Freeport assessor

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Siela Bynoe says this is needed

Freeport Bible Center is a not-for-profit religious organization that provides essential spiritual, charitable, and community services to residents in the Village of Freeport and surrounding areas. As with many houses of worship, the organization operates in furtherance of religious and community-based purposes that align with the intent of New York State's real property tax exemption provisions for not-for-profit enti- ties. Due to administrative or filing circumstances, the organization was unable to secure the appropriate exemption on the 2026 assessment roll. This legislation would authorize the Village of Freeport Assessor to accept a retroactive application, ensuring that Freeport Bible Center is not unduly penalized and is afforded the same tax-exempt status as simi- larly situated religious institutions. Granting this exemption will allow the organization to continue dedicat- ing its limited resources toward serving the community, including providing religious services, outreach programs, and support to local residents. This measure is consistent with past legislative actions taken to provide relief to qualifying not-for-profit organizations that have demonstrated eligibility but were unable to meet procedural dead- lines. Accordingly, this legislation is necessary to promote fairness and support the continued operation of a community-based religious institu- tion.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.