HB 1087 -- Property Tax Assessments

Co-Sponsors:  Linton, Hanaway

This bill makes various changes to provisions related to property
tax assessment and appeal.  In its main provisions, the bill:

(1)  Beginning January 1, 2003, limits the increase in assessed
valuation of residential real property owned by persons under 65
years of age or persons 65 years of age or older who have owned
the property less than five years, excluding new construction or
improvements, to the Consumer Price Index or 5%, whichever is
less;

(2)  Beginning January 1, 2003, freezes the assessed valuation of
residential real property owned by a person 65 years of age or
older who has owned the property five years or more, excluding
new construction or improvements;

(3)  Reduces the percentage increase requirement on real property
assessment increases mandating a physical inspection of the
property by the assessor from 17% to 5%;

(4)  Allows for a physical inspection of the interior of the real
property structure at the owner's request, if a regular physical
inspection is required by the assessor;

(5)  Prohibits "drive-by inspections" from qualifying as a
physical inspection;

(6)  Shifts the burden of proof in appeals from the property
owner to the assessor in cases where physical inspections are
required.  If the assessor fails to provide evidence of a proper
physical inspection when required, the property owner will
automatically prevail on appeal; and

(7)  Requires award of certain appraisal costs, attorney fees,
and court costs to the property owner on a successful appeal of
real property assessments in St. Louis County.

The bill has a referendum clause.

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated October 11, 2002 at 9:00 am