Frankfort, Ky. – Homeowners across Kentucky could see a reduction in their property tax bills if a proposed constitutional amendment moves forward. State Senator Gex Williams, a Republican from Verona, announced the measure during a recent interview, saying the amendment would give the General Assembly authority to exempt all or part of a permanent residence from property taxation.
What the amendment would change
Under the current system, Kentucky law requires property to be taxed at its fair market value. Williams argues that there is no constitutional mandate to tax a permanent residence in the same way other property is assessed. “Number one, it sets up a class of property called permanent residences as opposed to other kinds of property, and there’s no constitutional requirement to tax it,” he explained.
The amendment would create a new class of property—permanent residences—and allow the state legislature to grant full or partial exemptions from property taxes on those homes. Local governments would then be authorized to implement the exemptions within the limits set by the General Assembly.
Impact on local services
Critics often worry that cutting property tax revenue could hurt essential services such as schools, road maintenance, and public safety. Williams addressed those concerns, stating, “The amendment does not actually take away any of that. It just gives governments the flexibility to create additional mixes.” He emphasized that the proposal does not eliminate taxes on other property types, only on the designated class of permanent residences.
Potential economic benefits
Williams also suggested that the amendment could encourage economic development. By lowering the tax burden on homeowners, the state might become more attractive to large employers. “If a major industry were to locate in an area and generate additional tax revenue, we’re still leaving the tax on all property, but for permanent residences, we’re removing that requirement. Then we can sit down and discuss what the options are,” he said.
Legislative path
The proposal is slated for introduction in the upcoming General Assembly session. If both chambers approve the amendment, it would be placed on the November 2028 general election ballot for Kentucky voters to decide.
What residents should watch
Homeowners should monitor the progress of the amendment through the state legislature’s website and local news outlets. Should the measure advance, local governments will likely hold public hearings to discuss the specifics of any exemption programs they might adopt.
For now, the amendment remains a proposal, but its focus on giving families tax relief aligns with the broader goal of keeping the American Dream alive for Kentucky’s working families.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
