Missouri Senate Bill SB203

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 2/3/25

Caption

Authorizes a property tax for special educational services

Impact

If enacted, SB203 would facilitate increased funding specifically earmarked for special educational services, potentially enhancing the educational opportunities for students requiring additional support within these districts. The establishment of a Special Educational Services Property Tax Trust Fund is intended to ensure that the funds collected are exclusively directed toward the intended purpose of improving educational services.

Summary

Senate Bill 203 authorizes a metropolitan school district's board of education to impose a property tax on real property within the district to fund special educational services. This tax can be set at a maximum rate of three cents per hundred dollars of assessed valuation. Importantly, the implementation of this tax is contingent upon voter approval, necessitating that the school board submits a proposal to the district's qualified voters during a general election.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB203 may include interpretations of local autonomy and voter engagement concerning taxation. Supporters argue that empowering school boards to seek additional funding through voter-approved taxes allows for more responsive educational funding based on community needs. However, there may be concerns about tax burdens on property owners and the frequency of elections required for tax implementations, which could lead to voter fatigue or apathy over time.