Kansans over 65 would be pampered still more if a constitutional amendment bandied about in the Legislature becomes law.
The amendment being considered by the Assessment and Taxation Committee of the Senate would allow the Legislature to limit annual increases in the assessed valuation of homes owned by Kansans 65 and older.
Supporters say it would protect retirees who live on fixed incomes.
Bad idea.
The amendment shouldn’t get out of committee because it is based on a false assumption. The fact is those over 65 have more dispensible income than most other income groups and are more able to pay a property tax based on the market value of their homes than are youngsters groaning under the burden of house and car payments, raising children and accumulating furniture, clothing and other basics.
The second reason to kill this monster before it grows larger is that its passage would drill still another hole in the state’s tax structure. Tax loopholes of any kind weaken the ability of the state to carry out its responsibilities. Adding still another class-based exemption should be resisted mightily.
Finally, the Constitution of the State of Kansas is no place for tax legislation.
Advice to the committee: just say no.
— Emerson Lynn, jr.
