The need for property tax reform in Kansas has been building for years. But frustrations and the demand for solutions have never been higher as prices continue to soar for homeowners. These record-breaking tax rates make Kansas the worst state for rural property tax rates.

Governor Laura Kelly’s solution is to re-brand an old plan that has a failing track record. Her “tax-relief plan” increases local government spending with funds designated to lower property taxes—but it has not worked.

This legislative session, Kansas Policy Institute is demanding that legislators, as well as city and county officials, be honest about property tax increases. KPI launched a campaign exposing the behind closed doors process that politicians use to raise property taxes while claiming they are “holding the line.” Local officials only refer to a change in the mill rate—but in Kansas, you’re likely paying more in property taxes because of valuation increases—not mill rates. This creates an honesty gap.

KPI published a poll by SurveyUSA that reveals 75 percent of Kansas voters want local officials to vote on the entire property tax increase.

Kansas Policy Institute launched a campaign exposing the honesty gap, targeting the Kansas Statehouse. KPI also launched a grassroots educational campaign to show the honesty gap exists. KPI is working to show legislators that this gap should be closed by requiring politicians to vote on the whole package, not just the mill rates. KPI continues these campaign efforts, hoping that officials in Kansas will no longer be able to use this backdoor tactic to raise property taxes.

In addition to propety taxes, KPI is also focusing on worker freedom reforms. In Kansas, 67 percent of voters believe employees should be allowed to end their union membership and stop paying dues whenever they wish. However, unions make it difficult for employees to opt out.

KPI launched a media campaign to educate voters and legislators about the significance of the Janus Supreme Court decision. KPI invited Mark Janus, renowned plaintiff in the Supreme Court case, to provide testimony at a hearing in an effort to pressure the Legislature to comply with the Supreme Court decision. KPI is also launching a campaign that demonstrates why Kansas legislators need to comply with the decision.