Cap Proposal Would Limit Annual Increase in Taxable Valuations to 3%; Assessors and Counties Warn of Inequities and Budget Impacts

Representative Jason Doctor (District 7) said House Bill 1534 is intended to address both immediate property‑tax relief and longer‑term reform by limiting the taxable valuation of any parcel to a maximum annual increase of 3 percent. The bill also would permit local governments to seek voter approval, at a primary or general election, for additional mills for specific purposes for up to six years.

Doctor said the cap aims to protect taxpayers from sudden valuation jumps and to give political subdivisions predictable revenue forecasts. “What it is, the taxable valuation of any parcel cannot go more than 3%,” he said, and the bill allows voters to approve mill levies with the ballot specifying the number of mills, intended purpose and a six‑year term.

Supporters framed the cap as a way to help rural jurisdictions plan budgets and allow homeowners to “move up the ladder” without facing sharp tax increases on new homes. Representative Robin Wise said the bill would allow political subdivisions that rely heavily on property…