Missouri House Bill HJR16

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 5/12/23

Caption

Proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit any new tax or increase in tax from going into effect unless approved by the voters in a general election

Impact

If adopted, HJR16 could significantly reshape state laws concerning taxation and government revenue generation. The amendment would limit the legislative body’s ability to unilaterally impose new taxes or increase existing ones, thereby introducing a direct democratic mechanism in fiscal policy-making. It could also impact budget planning, as state agencies would need to adjust their forecasts and strategies based on potential tax changes that require a voter referendum.

Summary

HJR16 proposes a constitutional amendment that would require voter approval in a general election for any new taxes or increases in existing taxes to take effect. This legislative initiative aims to enhance accountability and ensure that tax-related changes reflect the will of the electorate rather than being decided solely by state legislators. By mandating voter consent, supporters argue that the amendment could protect taxpayers from sudden spurts in tax burdens without electoral support.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR16 is largely supportive among proponents who regard it as a necessary step towards increased transparency and taxpayer involvement. This sentiment is driven by concerns regarding fiscal conservatism and the desire to curb potential government overreach regarding taxation. Conversely, critics have expressed reservations about the implications of placing tax decisions in the hands of voters, fearing that it could lead to necessary government services being underfunded due to populist sentiments overriding fiscal responsibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns over the feasibility of executing voter referendum processes on fiscal matters, especially for essential services that may require stable funding. Opponents argue that the complexity of balancing immediate public needs against the unpredictability of public opinion could hamper effective governance. Additionally, the amendment raises questions about potential political manipulations, where tax increases might be framed in an exaggerated or misleading manner during election campaigns.