September 10th, 2026
New law will create a 50% property tax exemption for surviving spouses
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today signed legislation to provide substantial property tax relief to the families of law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The local law was unanimously passed by the County Legislature.
“Every day, our police officers put their lives on the line, standing in harm’s way to protect our community,” said County Executive Bello. “That’s a heavy burden, and one that their spouses and loved ones have to live with every day too. Unfortunately, when a law enforcement officer loses their life in the line of duty, that burden becomes even greater. There are no words to ease the pain a family experiences when their loved one loses their life in service to our community. But by providing real, tangible relief to the spouses of these fallen heroes, we can honor their memory and fulfill a solemn responsibility to care for their family in their time of need.”
Earlier this year, New York State passed legislation that authorized municipalities to provide a property tax exemption of up to 50% for the spouses of law enforcement officers who lost their lives while on the job. This exemption is permitted for only the primary residence of a surviving spouse. Following passage in the Monroe County Legislature, the signing of this local law will officially opt Monroe County into the state program with the highest-permitted 50% property tax exemption.
"Every day, heroes put themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities, and when one loses their life in the line of duty, providing meaningful support to their grieving families is our unwavering promise,” said Legislator Dave Long. “I was proud to help lead and unanimously pass this legislation in Monroe County, granting a property tax exemption to surviving spouses and establishing a foundation to support the families of all fallen first responders who make the ultimate sacrifice."
“As we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, we are reminded of the extraordinary courage of the law enforcement officers who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others - and of the families who share in that service,” said Legislator Paul Dondorfer. “When an officer makes the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, we have a solemn responsibility to stand with the loved ones left behind. This exemption is one meaningful way Monroe County can honor our fallen heroes and provide lasting support to their families.”
When an officer dies in the line of duty in New York, their family is eligible for benefits equal to two-thirds of the deceased officer’s average weekly pay. This legislation is designed to provide additional financial assistance for families in their time of mourning.
County Executive Bello previously held a public hearing on the proposed legislation in August to gather feedback from the community.
