Rhode Island targets Taylor Swift with new tax bill — days after human remains found near her mansion where she hopes to raise family with Travis Kelce

Just as Taylor Swift was preparing to turn her $17 million Watch Hill mansion into a dream family home with Travis Kelce, Rhode Island lawmakers are considering introducing a new tax bill that could cost the global superstar a hefty annual sum.

The proposal, unofficially dubbed the “Taylor Swift Tax,” comes amid swirling headlines — including the grim discovery of human remains near her seaside property.

'Taylor Swift tax' gains traction in Rhode Island: Here's what it means for high-end homeowners

On May 14, 2024, remains were found along the shoreline in Watch Hill, not far from Swift’s sprawling estate known as “Holiday House.” On June 13, South Kingstown Police confirmed the remains were identified as 31-year-old Eric Wein of Massachusetts. While unrelated to Swift directly, the unsettling event cast a somber mood over a location the singer has often called her “sanctuary.”Adding to the tension, a new bill introduced in Rhode Island’s budget aims to impose a “non-owner-occupied property tax” on luxury homes valued above $1 million that sit empty for more than half the year. Despite not being named directly, Swift has become the poster face of the bill, thanks to her high-profile presence in the state. The proposed law would charge homeowners $2.50 for every $500 of assessed value beyond the first million dollars, potentially costing Swift an additional $136,000 annually.

Swift's Rhode Island mansion — the most expensive private residence in the state — was purchased in 2013 for $17.75 million. The colonial-style estate has become legendary for its star-studded Independence Day parties and was immortalized in her hit track “The Last Great American Dynasty.” Today, the property is undergoing a $1.7 million renovation that includes a new bedroom suite, updated kitchen, and added guest space — all part of her plans to build a future with Kelce.Spanning over five acres with a 700-foot stretch of private beach, a pool house, and grand patios, the estate remains one of Swift’s favorite escapes. She was last seen there in August 2024, unwinding with Kelce and friends after wrapping up the European leg of her Eras Tour.Yet, the so-called Taylor Swift Tax has sparked controversy. The Rhode Island Association of Realtors has voiced strong opposition, arguing the measure could hurt an already strained housing market. Critics worry that, while aimed at the wealthiest homeowners, the bill could ripple through the broader real estate ecosystem, making it harder for everyday buyers and sellers.If the legislation is signed by Governor Dan McKee, even the Ocean State’s biggest pop star might face a financial “cruel summer” — just not the one she wrote about.Also Read: Is Travis Kelce ready for Hollywood? Veteran actor Christopher McDonald thinks so after Chiefs star's ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ cameo