Copeland Praises Ivey Tax Relief Bills
Shelby County candidate Demus Copeland backs new laws easing tax exemptions for Veterans and seniors, calling reforms a “game changer”
Demus Copeland is applauding Kay Ivey after the Governor signed a pair of bills he says will bring long-overdue relief to Veterans and seniors across the State.
Copeland, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, real estate attorney, and candidate for Shelby County Property Tax Commissioner, voiced strong support for House Bills 77 and 155. The legislation expands and simplifies access to property tax exemptions for qualifying residents.
“These bills represent a major step forward in protecting the financial well-being of those who have served our country and the seniors who have helped build our communities,” said Copeland. “As a Marine Corps Veteran and real estate attorney practicing here in Shelby County, I understand firsthand how property tax policies impact families, homeowners, and retirees.”
The new laws create a streamlined certification process. Eligible Veterans and residents age 65 and older can now obtain official exemption certificates without repeated filings. The change addresses a long-standing issue, where many seniors qualified for relief but never applied due to confusion or paperwork barriers.
“For too long, seniors have missed out on benefits they rightfully deserve,” Copeland said. “This legislation changes that by allowing qualifying individuals to apply once and never have to reapply again. That’s not just efficiency—that’s dignity and respect for our seniors.”
Copeland also pointed to the financial ripple effect, especially in how mortgage lenders handle escrow accounts.
“I have long advocated for a certificate-based system that allows financial institutions to properly recognize tax exemptions,” he said. “Too often, banks continue collecting property taxes through escrow accounts even when homeowners qualify for exemptions. These new certificates will help ensure that money stays in the pockets of the people who earned it, rather than being unnecessarily tied up.”
Calling the reforms a “game changer,” Copeland said the role of the property tax commissioner is now more hands-on than ever.
“This office is no longer just administrative—it is now a frontline position for ensuring that taxpayers receive the benefits they are entitled to under the law,” Copeland stated. “Proper implementation, outreach, and enforcement will be essential to making sure these reforms deliver real results for Shelby County residents.”
Copeland closed by praising Ivey’s leadership and signaling how he would approach the office if elected.
“Today is a good day for property tax reform in Alabama,” he said. “I commend Governor Ivey and our State legislators for taking meaningful action. As Property Tax Commissioner, I will work tirelessly to ensure these benefits are fully realized by the people of Shelby County.”
Governor Ivey’s broader legislative package also included measures aimed at supporting military members, Veterans, and their families, reinforcing a continued push at the State level to ease financial burdens and improve access to benefits.
Copeland recently entered the race for Shelby County Tax Commissioner, highlighting his legal background and service record as part of his campaign message. His platform has focused on transparency, taxpayer advocacy, and modernizing the office to better serve a fast-growing county.
