Governor Ryan Signs Legislation to Allow Tax Exemptions for Two Fraternal Organizations Headquartered in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today signed Senate Bill 15, qualifying the Moose Lodge and the Knights of Columbus to receive a property tax exemption beginning taxable year 2002.

"This bill will provide needed property tax relief for the many Knights of Columbus Halls and Moose Lodges that support a plethora of civic and charitable efforts in Illinois," Gov. Ryan said. "These organizations provide substantial help to those in need, and this is a way that we can help to ensure their important work can afford to continue."

The bill provides that fraternal properties chartered under federal law, which had their national headquarters in Illinois on December 31, 1926, qualify to be assessed at only 15 percent of the total property value.

Current law already allows certain veterans' and Masonic organizations to receive the reduced assessment.

SB 15 was sponsored by Senators James "Pate" Philip, R-Wood Dale; and Dave Sullivan, R-Mt. Prospect, and Representatives Tom Dart, D-Chicago; Joseph Lyons, D-Chicago; Bill Black, R-Danville; and Jay Hoffman, D-Collinsville.