(Constitutional Amendment) Limits the amount of the increase in the assessed value of certain immovable property in Orleans Parish following reassessment of property for purposes of ad valorem taxes (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF RV)
If enacted, this amendment would modify the current constitutional framework surrounding ad valorem taxation in Orleans Parish. The existing law allows for property reassessment every four years and permits significant increases in assessed property values. By capping these increases at 10%, the legislation aims to provide more predictable and manageable tax liabilities for homeowners while still allowing property values to appreciate. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any decreased tax revenue resulting from this limitation must be absorbed by the taxing authority, ensuring that existing taxpayers do not incur additional burdens.
House Bill 430 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Louisiana that specifically affects Orleans Parish by limiting the increase in the assessed value of residential immovable property to no more than 10% of its assessed value from the previous year. This measure is aimed at providing financial relief to property owners by curbing steep increases in property taxes resulting from reassessments. The bill addresses significant concerns among residents regarding affordability and due process following large property tax hikes, which can especially impact low- and fixed-income residents.
The sentiment surrounding HB 430 is predominantly supportive among homeowners and community advocacy groups that aim to protect residents from unchecked property tax escalations. Proponents view the amendment as a critical step toward financial stability and sustainability for residents, particularly given the economic pressures exacerbated by other factors, such as inflation and the COVID-19 pandemic. Conversely, concerns have been raised by some governmental revenue agencies about the potential long-term impacts on public funding, which may rely heavily on property tax revenues.
Notable points of contention include discussions about the ability of local governments to manage their tax systems effectively without state intervention. While supporters argue that the bill is a necessary consumer protection measure, opponents worry about its implications for local governance and funding for essential services like education and public safety. The ongoing debate reflects broader regional tensions concerning taxation, governmental authority, and the balance between property rights and community responsibilities.