Missouri lawmakers likely will try property tax reform again after failing this year

Missouri lawmakers did not advance property tax relief this year after Republican-led efforts in the Senate failed to gain traction in the House. The Senate passed a bill to insulate residential properties from tax hikes tied to commercial property assessment increases, but the measure died alongside other proposals, including a school grading system, before reaching Gov. Mike Kehoe. House Republicans cited a lack of consensus on the extent of relief, with Democrats arguing the focus shifted to phasing out the state income tax in favor of expanded sales taxes. Senate Republicans expressed frustration, noting property tax reform had bipartisan support before the income tax plan took precedence. Rep. Brian Seitz, R-Branson, warned that high taxes are driving young residents to states like Florida and Texas, urging tax cuts as a priority for next year’s session. Meanwhile, other legislative efforts, including a bill to permanently ban transgender athletes from competitions through the collegiate level and a measure to indefinitely extend restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors, also stalled after passing one chamber but failing in the other. The failed property tax reforms highlight ongoing divisions between the House and Senate, with Democrats emphasizing voter demand for relief. Lawmakers from both parties indicated they will campaign on the issue ahead of next year’s legislative session. The stalled transgender-related bills reflect broader partisan tensions, with no progress made despite initial advances in their respective chambers.