Voters in North Dakota are about to make a monumental decision: whether to abolish property taxes entirely. The ballot measure, which will be voted on November 5, could make North Dakota the first state in the U.S. to eliminate property taxes.
Supporters, like Rick Becker and Steve Moen, argue that property taxes are an immoral form of taxation, forcing people—especially retirees—into financial strain. Moen highlighted how rising taxes are pushing elderly homeowners to the brink of losing their homes. Becker contends that once North Dakota takes the plunge, other states may follow suit.
Opponents warn, however, that property taxes fund essential services like schools and emergency services. If this passes, the state would have to figure out how to replace that lost revenue, likely triggering budget challenges.
For those in favor of this measure, this is about more than just tax cuts—it’s about liberty and property rights. If you’ve paid off your home, why should you keep paying the government for property you already own? As Becker notes, the current system forces homeowners to continually fork over money based on the *assumed* market value of their homes, even if that value is just numbers on paper. Many conservatives see this as one of the most oppressive taxes left standing, and they’re ready to fight to get rid of it.
North Dakota voters could end property taxes — and intensify a tax revolt https://t.co/jn1TsNlkmg
— MarketWatch (@MarketWatch) October 21, 2024
Opponents argue that repealing property taxes could lead to chaos. How will North Dakota fund its schools, parks, and emergency services without these critical dollars? The measure stipulates that the state would have to reimburse local governments with the same amount of money they would’ve collected in 2024, but how long can that really last without big cuts to services or new taxes popping up elsewhere?
If this measure succeeds, it could send shockwaves across the country, with other states looking to follow North Dakota’s lead. The debate comes down to whether you believe property taxes are necessary for a functioning society or an immoral financial burden that’s long overdue for the chopping block.
Leave a Comment