CA SB996

Requires refund of ad valorem property taxes, interest, and penalties paid between January 1, 2002, and January 1, 2009, on rental housing property that qualifies for a welfare exemption under Section 214 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

Refund amount equals total tax payments minus any outstanding special assessments, fees, or other charges levied on the property during the specified period.

Any unpaid taxes, interest, or penalties not refunded must be applied toward outstanding special assessments, fees, or other charges on the property.

Applies only to property previously owned by the Department of Transportation, now solely owned by tax-exempt organizations, with deed restrictions ensuring units remain affordable for lower-income households at prescribed rent levels.

Establishes that the measure fulfills a statewide public purpose by maintaining affordable housing commitments under a Department of Transportation consent decree and addressing California's affordable housing shortage.