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Bill

Bill

HCR 5023

Proposing to amend the constitution of the state of Kansas to provide that property tax exemptions be approved by the electors of the state.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Amyx and 17 co-sponsors

Kansas constitutional amendment requiring statewide voter approval for all new property tax exemptions, shifting tax policy authority from legislature to electorate.

Died in Committee
#constitutionalamendments(kansas) #resolutions #taxation
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Bill Summary · HCR 5023

Legislative bill overview

HCR 5023 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring that any new property tax exemptions in Kansas must be approved by voters statewide rather than being enacted solely by the legislature. This would fundamentally shift the authority over tax policy from elected representatives to direct democratic vote.

Why is this important

Property tax exemptions directly affect state and local government revenue and the tax burden distribution among property owners. Currently, the legislature can create exemptions for various groups (seniors, veterans, nonprofits, etc.), but this amendment would require voter approval for each new exemption, potentially making tax policy changes more difficult to implement and giving citizens direct control over these decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Legislative authority vs. direct democracy: Transfers significant policymaking power from elected legislators to voters, which supporters see as democratic oversight but critics view as weakening representative government's ability to respond to changing needs
  • Practical implementation challenges: Determining which exemptions require voter approval (new vs. modified), managing ballot length with numerous tax proposals, and potential delays in addressing urgent tax policy needs
  • Disparate impact on vulnerable groups: Could make it harder to quickly establish exemptions for seniors, veterans, or nonprofits if voters reject proposals, though supporters argue voters should decide tax policy priorities
  • Revenue predictability: Makes long-term budget planning uncertain since exemption changes depend on election outcomes rather than legislative timeline

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

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