T
he Kansas State Senate is once again considering a constitutional amendment that would limit the annual increase in real estate valuation for property tax purposes. The proposed amendment, Senate Concurrent Resolution 1603, aims to cap the annual valuation increase of real property and mobile homes at 3%.

    Kansas Policy Institute CEO Dave Trabert testified in favor of the amendment, citing the significant increase in property taxes over the past few decades. He noted that residential property taxes have risen by 342% since 1997, while overall real estate taxes are up 296%, far exceeding inflation's 80% increase.

    Trabert pointed out that residential property owners now bear a disproportionately large share of the tax burden, with their portion increasing from 39% in 1997 to 55%. He also highlighted instances where counties experienced double-digit valuation increases, despite population loss or economic decline.

    Other proponents of the amendment include Senator Mike Thompson, the Kansas Biofuels Association, and multiple residents. However, some groups, such as the Kansas Association of School Boards and the Kansas National Education Association, expressed concerns that limiting valuation increases would negatively impact school funding.

    A recent public opinion poll conducted by SurveyUSA found that 64% of voters support a real estate assessment valuation limit, with only 18% opposed. The survey showed consistent support across geographic and ideological perspectives.

    Concerns have been raised about the potential shift in tax burden from residential to agricultural property or commercial real estate. However, data suggests that these groups' share of the tax burden has actually decreased over time, while residential property owners bear a larger portion.

    The Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation may soon consider recommending the bill for full Senate passage.