Clarifying property tax increases, highlighting SB 3 solutions

Responding to widespread community concerns about recent property tax increases, some as high as 12% or more, Representative Matthew Overcast clarified the reasons behind these hikes and highlighted local solutions provided by recently passed Senate Bill 3 (SB 3).

“It’s important to set the record straight,” said Rep. Overcast. “The Missouri Legislature did NOT legislate these property tax increases. Instead, these hikes have come directly from mandates by the Missouri State Tax Commission (STC).”

Missouri State Tax Commission’s role

The Missouri State Tax Commission is a constitutional agency established by Article X, Section 14 of the Missouri Constitution, responsible for:

• Establishing statewide assessment standards and guidelines.

• Ensuring county assessors comply with state-mandated valuation ratios.

• Conducting audits and compliance reviews of property assessments.

• Handling taxpayer appeals.

The STC significantly influences property assessments by requiring county assessors to conduct biennial property reassessments reflecting current market values, directly leading to higher valuations and increased property taxes.

“These actions by the STC are exactly why SB 3 was necessary,” Overcast explained. “SB 3 returns control to local voters, allowing them—not unelected bureaucrats—to decide on freezing their property taxes. If voters approve a freeze, the STC can no longer mandate arbitrary increases.”

SB 3 – Property tax freeze option for our district

Under SB 3, counties can choose to freeze property taxes, protecting homeowners from future increases:

• Counties must opt-in via voter approval by April 2026.

• Once approved, property taxes on homeowners’ primary residences will be frozen at the qualifying year’s amount, effectively preventing future assessment-driven increases mandated by the STC.

Rep. Overcast has also been appointed to a bipartisan interim legislative committee charged with reviewing and recommending further property tax reforms. The committee aims to develop long-term solutions either for consideration during a special legislative session or for timely action during the next regular legislative session.

“I remain dedicated to working alongside constituents, local officials, and colleagues to provide fair, lasting solutions to the burden of rising property taxes,” Overcast concluded.

For additional questions or assistance, constituents are encouraged to contact:

Matthew Overcast 

State Representative, District 155

Email: Matthew.Overcast@house.mo.gov

Phone: (417) 755-9156