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In a notable move to aid homeowners, Governor Mark Gordon has officially signed into law a significant measure allowing for a 25% property tax reduction for residents in Wyoming. Concurrently, he vetoed a bill aimed at terminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in the state’s higher education institutions.
On Tuesday, Governor Gordon endorsed Senate File 69, known as the “Homeowner Property Tax Exemption.” According to a news release from his office, this legislation is designed to deliver enduring property tax relief to homeowners across Wyoming.
Conversely, Gordon rejected Senate File 103, a bill spearheaded by Senator Cheri Steinmetz of Torrington, which sought to eliminate DEI initiatives mandated by state agencies and public educational institutions.
A Closer Look at the Property Tax Cut
Senate File 69 underwent several transformations throughout the 68th Wyoming Legislature’s general session, which is scheduled to conclude on Thursday. Initially proposed amendments suggested a more drastic 50% property tax cut and adjustments based on a five-year, county-by-county average increase in property valuations.
Ultimately, the approved bill establishes a permanent 25% property tax exemption for the first $1 million of a single-family home’s fair market value. The exemption takes effect immediately, but there will be an owner-occupied requirement that begins in the second year.
Governor Gordon expressed his commitment to maintaining tax accountability in his announcement, emphasizing that the new tax relief measure would not burden the state’s essential energy sector.
“This act, along with other bills I signed last year, responds directly to calls for property tax relief,” he stated. “Now, we must work collaboratively with our cities, counties, and special districts to ensure these changes benefit our citizens.”
During discussions last Thursday at a joint conference committee meeting, Representative Scott Heiner of Green River urged dual support for local governments via financial backfill. However, Senate Vice President Tim Salazar noted that a consensus on including backfill would not be possible with the current 25% tax cut.
Continued attempts to incorporate backfill amendments into additional property tax measures, such as Senate File 153, were met with failure as recently as Tuesday.
“We need to advocate for what is right for our constituents, regardless of external pressures,” Representative J.T. Larson of Rock Springs remarked on the House floor.
Governor’s Veto on DEI Legislation
In his veto letter for Senate File 103, Governor Gordon drew attention to the importance of local control, reinforcing that Wyoming has historically upheld principles of responsible governance and educational integrity.
Gordon acknowledged the Legislature’s intention to tackle DEI-related issues in public institutions but expressed significant concerns regarding the bill’s broad and vague restrictions. He cautioned that these could lead to legal ambiguities and unintended repercussions that might harm Wyoming’s educational framework and workforce development.
The bill saw late amendments, including a provision to allocate $550,000 for medical education funding for Wyoming students in partnership with the University of Utah. While initially opposed, the Senate pivoted and passed the amended bill to the governor. However, Gordon suggested that discussions on funding should take place during the upcoming Budget Session in the fall.
He also pointed out that other legislation, such as House Enrolled Act 67, already addresses related DEI issues by defining prohibited practices, which promotes clearer guidelines and minimizes potential legal confusions.
In summary, Governor Mark Gordon’s actions reflect an ongoing commitment to both property tax relief for Wyoming homeowners and careful consideration of DEI policy implications in the state’s educational institutions. As these developments unfold, they will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape for both residents and educators alike.
Property Taxes Drive Development in Low-Income Countries
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