Senator Tony Luetkemeyer’s Bill Provides Tax Relief to Seniors

JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, presented legislation to protect seniors from increased property tax assessments. Senate Bill 190 would authorize a tax credit to seniors to offset increased tax liability for residential property imposed after the taxpayer became eligible for Social Security benefits.

“For many Missourians, a home is their most valuable asset.” Sen. Luetkemeyer said. “Excessive property tax assessments can threaten the American dream by making continued home ownership unaffordable. My legislation would bring predictability to the assessment process and help ensure Missouri seniors are not priced out of their own homes through taxation.”

In addition to protecting seniors from rising property assessments, SB 190 exempts Social Security benefits from state income taxes.  Missouri is one of only 11 states that currently taxes Social Security.

Senator Luetkemeyer first took up the cause of rising assessments in 2019, when some residents of his district saw dramatic increases in property valuations. During the 2020 legislative session, Sen. Luetkemeyer successfully advanced legislation requiring physical inspections before large increases could be imposed, ensuring property owners have sufficient time to appeal assessment increases.

    For more information about Sen. Luetkemeyer, visit www.senate.mo.gov/mem34