Wyoming panel debates constitutional amendment for disabled veteran property tax exemption

A proposed constitutional amendment aimed at providing property tax exemptions for 100% permanently disabled veterans sparked a heated discussion during the Wyoming Senate Revenue Committee meeting on February 19, 2025. The amendment, while well-intentioned, raised concerns among committee members about its implications and the potential exclusion of veterans in greater need.

A retired disabled combat veteran voiced strong reservations about the amendment, arguing that it targets a group of veterans who are already financially stable, as they must own a home to qualify. He emphasized that the focus should instead be on supporting homeless veterans and those struggling to navigate the benefits system. "We're gonna change the constitution to say financially best off who are already in a pretty good position... but the homeless veterans... are kind of being left to their own," he stated.

The veteran expressed a desire for local control, suggesting that county commissioners could provide assistance without amending the state constitution. He urged the committee to consider alternative methods of support that would directly benefit those veterans who truly need help, rather than creating a new subclass of property owners.

In contrast, another speaker, Pat Macy, expressed enthusiasm for the amendment, noting that at least 13 other states offer similar tax exemptions. He acknowledged the restrictive nature of the "permanent and total" classification and suggested that veterans with partial disabilities should also be included in such benefits. Macy argued that making the amendment a constitutional one would ensure its permanence against future legislative changes.

The committee ultimately moved to discuss the bill further, indicating that the debate over how best to support veterans in Wyoming is far from over. As the conversation continues, the committee faces the challenge of balancing the needs of all veterans while navigating the complexities of constitutional amendments.