Truth in Taxation (Revenue-Neutral) Is Working for Kansans
Since its passage in 2021, Kansas’ Truth in Taxation revenue-neutral law has delivered on its promise: greater transparency, accountability, and protection for taxpayers. It ensures that elected officials must be honest about property tax increases — and that’s leading to smaller increases than we likely would have seen otherwise.
How the Law Works
If local governments want to collect more property tax revenue than the previous year, they must:
This process gives citizens a voice and holds officials accountable.
Why It Matters
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Property Tax Growth Slowed in Most Counties
In 67 counties, property tax increases have averaged less than 5% annually since the law took effect — below the rate of inflation. That includes all taxing entities: cities, counties, school districts, and more.
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Most Local Governments Held Revenue-Neutral in 2024
In 2024, 62% of taxing authorities chose not to raise property taxes — including 48 counties, nearly 300 cities, and many school districts.
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But Homeowners Still Need More Protection
Even when local governments hold revenue-neutral, sharp increases in appraised home values can still lead to unaffordable tax hikes.
Example: In Linn County, the mill rate dropped 20%, but home values jumped 66% — resulting in a 33% tax increase for the average homeowner.
What’s next in keeping Kansas lawmakers honest?
To protect homeowners from runaway appraisals, Kansas needs a constitutional amendment to limit how much taxable assessed value can increase each year.
This would still allow properties to be appraised at market value — but would cap the taxable portion, shielding families from sudden spikes in their tax bills.
