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Bill

Bill

SB 216

reduce the growth in the assessed value of owner-occupied property, limit increases in certain property tax revenues, revise provisions regarding school district excess tax levies, and revise eligibility requirements for a property tax assessment freeze.

2025 Regular Session

South Dakota limits owner-occupied property tax assessment growth and adjusts school levy and assessment freeze rules, reducing tax bills for homeowners while potentially constraining local and school revenues.

Signed by the Governor on 2025-03-13 S.J. 533
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Bill Summary · SB 216

Legislative bill overview

SB 216 implements property tax relief measures in South Dakota by capping the growth rate of assessed values for owner-occupied residential properties, limiting increases in certain property tax revenues, and modifying school district excess tax levy procedures. The bill also adjusts eligibility requirements for the state's property tax assessment freeze program, which typically protects senior citizens and disabled persons from rising assessments.

Why is this important

Property tax assessment growth directly affects homeowners' tax bills and local government revenues. By restricting assessment value increases, the bill provides tax relief to homeowners but may constrain funding for schools and local services that depend on property tax revenue. This creates a tension between taxpayer relief and public service funding that affects both individual finances and community institutions.

Potential points of contention

  • School funding impact: Limiting property tax revenue growth may reduce school district budgets unless offset by state appropriations, potentially affecting education quality and services
  • Assessment equity: Capping assessment growth could create disparities where similar properties pay different taxes based on when they were assessed, raising fairness concerns
  • Local government capacity: Municipalities and counties relying on property tax revenue may face budget constraints for roads, emergency services, and infrastructure maintenance
  • Eligibility restrictions: Tightening assessment freeze eligibility criteria may exclude some seniors or disabled persons previously protected from rising taxes

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

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