Rep. Cody Maynard
The Oklahoma House of Representatives this week passed a measure that would send to a vote of the people a constitutional amendment that would reduce the annual increase in property tax for Oklahomans.
Senate Joint Resolution 39 would lower the annual cap on increases in the fair cash value of real property and restructure the senior property-value freeze.
The cap for homestead and agricultural land would decrease from 3% to 1.75%, and the cap for all other real property from 5% to 4%. Changes would apply beginning in tax year 2027.
Lawmakers were told this would give Oklahoma the lowest fixed cap on growth on homestead property taxes of any state in the nation should this be approved by voters.
The measure also would establish a tiered system for homestead property owned by those who are 65 and older, basing the cap on income relative to median income within their county. Those making at or below 100% of the median income would have no increase. Those making above 180% of the median income would have a 1.75% cap. Steps between 0.35% to 1.4% would exist between the lowest and highest levels.
The hope of House and Senate leadership is to place this before a vote of the people in a statewide special election in August.
I have heard from many constituents that they want property tax relief. This is step in that direction.
The resolution was amended in the House, so it will return to the Senate for final passage before it could move to the secretary of state to be placed on the August ballot.
This past week in the House, we also considered many spending limits bills. These are in addition to the general appropriation’s bill. They specify how state agencies are to spend the funds appropriated them as they provide programs and services that support Oklahomans. An example is Senate Bill 201 that outlines $2,000 step raises for every step on the minimum salary schedule for teachers ad other certified employees in our public schools. Other bills specify transportation funding, public safety, health and mental health care and more.
Also during the past week, the House and Senate convened in joint session to recognize the work and history of the Oklahoma National Guard. We were told there are about 9,000 soldiers, airmen and personnel currently serving, with some deployed in the Middle East standing in harm’s way. These men and women willingly place themselves in danger so the rest of us can live in safety and freedom. My prayers are with them and with their families who share in that sacrifice.
The history of the Guard goes back to the 1890 Territorial Militia. Guard members have served in World Wars I and II and in deployments around the globe since then. They also serve here at home during natural disasters, domestic threats and public health emergencies like COVID 19. Their service reflects a deep commitment to something greater than themselves, and Oklahoma is stronger because of it.