WeVote

Bill

Bill

HJR 113

Proposes a constitutional amendment granting homestead and personal property tax exemptions to certain veterans proportional to the veteran's disability rating

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Costlow

Missouri constitutional amendment ties homestead and personal property tax exemptions for veterans to their disability rating percentage.

Read Second Time (H)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 113

Legislative bill overview

HJR 113 proposes a Missouri constitutional amendment that would allow homestead and personal property tax exemptions for certain veterans, scaled according to their disability rating. The exemption would be proportional, meaning veterans with higher disability ratings would receive larger tax breaks. This requires voter approval to amend the state constitution.

Why is this important

Veterans' property taxes directly affect their disposable income and housing affordability, particularly for those with service-connected disabilities who may face increased living expenses. A disability-proportional exemption could provide meaningful financial relief while recognizing service-related sacrifices. However, this would reduce state and local tax revenues, affecting funding for schools, infrastructure, and public services unless compensated elsewhere.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Local governments and schools depend on property tax revenue; losing exempted properties requires either cuts to services, tax increases on non-exempt residents, or state reimbursement
  • Defining eligibility: Questions remain about which veterans qualify (service-connected disabilities only? all honorably discharged?), what disability ratings apply, and how VA ratings would be verified
  • Proportionality mechanics: Determining how exemption levels scale with disability percentages (50% disabled = 50% exemption?) needs clarification and could create administrative complexity
  • Precedent and cost: Other states' veteran exemptions provide limited guidance; Missouri would need fiscal analysis before constitutional commitment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.