Ohio Kansas Consider Property Tax Elimination Amid Funding Reform Debates

Several states, including Kansas and Ohio, are actively considering proposals to eliminate property taxes as part of broader tax reform efforts. In Kansas, Rep. Blake Carpenter has proposed a constitutional amendment to eliminate property, vehicle, and state income taxes over an extended timeline, compensated by increased sales taxes and reduced exemptions. Ohio lawmakers, responding to a possible 2026 ballot initiative to abolish property taxes, are exploring relief measures such as limiting school district property tax increases to inflation rates, while some officials emphasize cutting state budget waste and corporate subsidies to fund public services without property tax revenue. Concerns remain about the impact on funding for essential services like schools and fire departments, though proponents argue alternative revenue streams could cover these costs. Meanwhile, local governments like Roane County report decreasing property tax rates due to rising property values, along with offering tax relief programs for elderly and disabled homeowners to ease payment burdens. These developments reflect a national debate balancing tax relief with maintaining funding for critical state and local services.