Kansas Senate Bill SB309

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/10/23
• Report Pass: 3/23/23

Caption

Creating the fixing instant revenue shock for taxpayers fund and the local extraordinary needs fund, establishing the joint committee on local extraordinary needs grants and abolishing the local ad valorem tax reduction fund.

Impact

The enactment of SB309 would notably impact local government funding and administration in Kansas. The switch from the local ad valorem tax reduction fund to the newly created funds implies a significant shift in how municipalities align their financial planning and execution. Local governments would need to navigate the new processes for grant applications and compliance established by the joint committee, which signifies an increase in the bureaucratic oversight of local fiscal matters. This centralization could complicate budget management and lead to delays in funding, which may affect crucial local services if municipalities cannot adapt quickly to the requirements for accessing these funds.

Summary

Senate Bill 309 introduces significant changes to the fiscal support structure for cities and counties in Kansas. Notably, it establishes the 'fixing instant revenue shock for taxpayers fund' to mitigate losses in local retailers' sales and compensating use tax revenues that may occur due to enacting new legislation. The bill allocates $220 million from the state general fund to this initiative, setting a framework for compensating local governments for any tax revenue reductions they experience as a result of state legislative actions. This provision aims to stabilize local government finances by restoring lost tax revenues, thus maintaining critical services and funding at the municipal level. In addition, SB309 creates the 'local extraordinary needs fund,' which is intended to provide grants for capital expenditure projects approved by a newly established joint committee on local extraordinary needs grants. This fund will include an initial transfer of $50 million from the state general fund to facilitate these grants. The joint committee will oversee the approval of funding requests, and it is designed to focus on the tangible needs of local entities, ensuring that funds are distributed effectively to meet extraordinary expenses that may arise in various municipalities. A notable aspect of this bill is its intent to replace the existing local ad valorem tax reduction fund with the new funding mechanisms. The bill proposes to abolish the local ad valorem tax reduction fund entirely, transferring all associated liabilities to the state general fund. This shifts the responsibility from local to state-level budgeting, which may raise concerns among local governments about reduced autonomy and control over their financial resources. Critics may view this move as a centralization of financial power, potentially undermining local governments' abilities to address their unique challenges independently. In terms of legislative dynamics, SB309 faced opposition, as reflected in its voting history, where it ultimately failed to pass with a vote of 17 in favor and 23 against. The discussions surrounding the bill highlighted differing opinions on the effectiveness of state-level intervention in local funding crises and the implications of replacing pre-existing funding structures. Advocates argue that the bill strengthens local governments by providing necessary funding for unexpected costs, while opponents are concerned about the long-term sustainability of state-managed funds and the potential for reduced local governance and responsiveness.