Proposes a constitutional amendment granting property tax exemptions to certain disabled veterans
Impact
If approved, the new amendment would exempt assessed real property used as a homestead by qualifying disabled veterans from taxation effectively, thus enhancing the financial relief offered to these individuals. For veterans with disability ratings between 30% and 49%, a specific dollar amount of $2,500 would begin to be exempted starting four years after enactment, while those rated from 50% to 69% would see an exemption of $5,000 starting two years after. For veterans rated at 70% to 100%, all assessed property would be exempt from taxation.
Summary
HJR95 is a proposed constitutional amendment presented to the qualified voters of Missouri, aiming to amend Article X of the state constitution concerning property tax exemptions. Specifically, this joint resolution seeks to repeal Section 6 of Article X and replace it with a new section that grants substantial property tax exemptions for certain disabled veterans. The bill defines a 'disabled veteran' as a Missouri resident who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces and has a service-connected disability as certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These exemptions are designed to alleviate the financial burden on disabled veterans living in their primary residence (homestead).
Contention
The discussion surrounding HJR95 has highlighted various points of contention, particularly in relation to fiscal responsibility and the potential impact on local government revenues. Advocates argue that this measure is long overdue and serves as a moral obligation to support those who have sacrificed for their country, while opponents express concerns about how such tax exemptions might affect the financial resources available to local governments which rely on property taxes for funding essential services. The requirement for a general election or special election to vote on this amendment further emphasizes the significance and divisive nature of the issue.