Missouri House Bill HB2594

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Reduces the assessment percentage of personal property

Impact

If enacted, HB 2594 will result in significant changes to how personal property is taxed in Missouri. By lowering the assessment percentage, the bill aims to alleviate the tax burden on owners of personal property while aiming to maintain overall revenue levels through this adjustment mechanism. The proposed bill is a response to calls for tax reform aimed at improving equity in property taxation, which has been a contentious issue among legislators and constituents alike. Proponents argue that this measure would create a more balanced approach to taxation, benefitting individuals and businesses with significant personal property holdings.

Summary

House Bill 2594 seeks to amend the existing Missouri law regarding the assessment of personal property taxes. Specifically, it proposes a reduction in the percentage of true value at which personal property is assessed, beginning with an annual adjustment that aims to align personal property tax revenue with growth in revenue from real property assessments. This adjustment would continue annually until December 31, 2073, when the assessment rate is established permanently. The intention is to create a fairer taxation system that reflects changes in property values over time.

Contention

The bill has drawn some points of contention, particularly regarding its potential effect on local revenue streams that rely heavily on personal property taxes. Critics argue that reducing the assessment rate could lead to budget shortfalls for local governments that depend on these revenues for essential services. There are concerns that such shifts in tax policy might favor wealthier individuals or larger corporations that hold more personal property relative to lower-income residents. As discussions around the bill continue, debates will likely focus on finding a balance between equitable taxation and the financial needs of local governments.