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Bill

HJR 125

Proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Missouri to allow political subdivisions to increase the rate or the purpose of local sales taxes upon approval by the voters

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Irwin

Constitutional amendment authorizing Missouri cities and counties to raise sales tax rates with voter approval, shifting tax authority from state legislature to local communities.

Referred: Special Committee on Property Tax Reform(H)
#cities #towns #andvillages #constitutionalamendments #counties #elections #politicalsubdivisions #taxationandrevenue-salesanduse
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Bill Summary · HJR 125

Legislative bill overview

HJR 125 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow Missouri's local governments (cities, counties, school districts, etc.) to increase local sales tax rates or expand what goods/services are taxed, provided voters in that jurisdiction approve the change through a ballot measure. Currently, Missouri's constitution restricts how local governments can modify sales taxes, requiring state-level legislative approval for most changes.

Why is this important

This amendment would shift tax authority from the state legislature to local voters, potentially allowing communities to fund local priorities like schools, infrastructure, or emergency services without state intervention. However, it could also increase the overall tax burden on residents depending on voter decisions in their area, and may create variations in sales tax rates across Missouri that could affect interstate commerce and business location decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • State versus local control: Reduces the legislature's power over local taxation, which some view as necessary oversight and others see as overdue decentralization
  • Tax burden concerns: Opponents worry this makes it easier for local governments to raise taxes, while supporters argue it gives communities democratic control over their own funding
  • Business impact and complexity: Multiple different local sales tax rates could complicate business operations and create competitive disadvantages between neighboring jurisdictions with different tax structures

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

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