House Backs Measure to Hold Tax Votes in General Elections

The Missouri House has endorsed a proposed constitutional amendment that could prohibit tax hikes from being decided during municipal elections.

The measure given initial approval Wednesday is intended to require counties, cities and other entities to place proposals for new or higher taxes or fees on the November general election ballot.

Republican Rep. Phil Christofanelli, who is sponsoring the measure, said he believes too many local governments are placing tax issues on the April ballot when turnout typically is lower to try to boost their chances of passing.

But opponents of the legislation said it makes sense to keep the elections for local candidates and tax issues on the same spring ballot.

If passed by the House and Senate, the proposed constitutional amendment would go before statewide voters in 2020.