S8161

The New York State Senate passed legislation authorizing the assessor of the Town of Ramapo in Rockland County to accept a real property tax exemption application, despite vocal opposition from at least two senators who raised concerns about potential tax fraud. Senate Print 8161, sponsored by Sen. Weber, passed 50-9 on a roll call vote. Opponents, including Sens. Skoufis and Krueger, objected to providing retroactive tax exemption for a property purchased by Yeshivas Nachlas Sofrim on March 24, 2023, that was previously used as a single-family home. Skoufis noted the property cannot legally be used as a school until the local planning board approves conversion on June 24 at the earliest. He warned the bill "opens up the possibility, the real possibility for tax fraud" and recommended Gov. Hochul veto it. Krueger echoed the concern, cautioning the bill could set a precedent allowing homeowners to avoid school taxes by claiming different uses. Nine senators voted against the measure: Hoylman-Sigal, Jackson, Krueger, May, O'Mara, Sanders, Skoufis, Kavanagh, and Cleare.