Leah Austin

I oppose this bill because it would disproportionately harm hippotherapy organizations that quietly change lives every day. Hippotherapy programs use horses to help children and adults with disabilities improve mobility, communication, emotional regulation, and confidence—often after other therapies have failed. For many families, this work represents hope. The land these programs require is not excess or profit-generating space; it is essential for safety, effective treatment, and the humane care of the horses that make healing possible. These organizations operate on thin margins and depend on donations and volunteers. Requiring them to pay property taxes would force higher costs for families, or closures altogether. The burden would fall on those already facing the greatest challenges. Hippotherapy programs reduce long-term healthcare costs and strengthen communities by serving people with limited access to care. Taxing them like commercial property does not create public benefit—it strips compassion from public policy. I urge you to reject this bill and protect the property tax exemptions that allow healing, dignity, and hope to continue. Thank you for your consideration