Ruestman explains property tax relief bill

In her weekly column, Rep. Marilyn Ruestman, R-Joplin, provides the lowdown on HB 1350, which is designed to offer relief from property taxes:

Missourians expect the government to spend their tax dollars wisely. The Republican Majority in Jefferson City has taken a strong stance against tax increases over the past eight years. After gaining the majority in 2002 the atmosphere in Jefferson City changed for the better. I was newly elected at that time and I vowed to represent the taxpayers who had no lobbyist(s) protecting their interest.

Over the past few years I have heard increasingly from senior citizens and young families who are unable to budget for large property tax increases at a time when many are fighting to pay their mortgage. The burden of ever increasing property taxes makes it even more difficult to meet other family needs as well.

This session, I have proposed House Bill 1350 which would offer some relief to those struggling against increasing property taxes. Under the bill a homeowner would be able to choose how their property is assessed from three options:

* The assessment from the assessor;
* The purchase price; or,
* The appraised value as determined by a certified appraiser.

After choosing an option, the assessment would remain the same except for an increase of the lesser of 2% or the Consumer Price Index on the assessment. When the deed to the property is changed or the property is sold, the new owner would then choose one of the three options and reassessment would occur. It is important to note that this would not decrease revenue to taxing entities, but simply slow the growth of revenue. This would make property taxes more predictable and allow a stable budget process. It would also prevent spikes in the amount of taxes you would owe from one year to the next.

Property tax is an issue that needs to be addressed. I would like to hear from constituents who have concerns about their property taxes. This is an important issue that members of the General Assembly should hear about from their constituents.