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Jefferson City Today
By the People, for the People
Missouri Voters to Decide on Property Tax Caps in April Elections
A court ruling allows 97 counties to put property tax cap measures on the April ballot, though the law's future remains uncertain.
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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A Missouri judge has denied motions to block April elections in 97 counties that will ask voters whether to cap increases in their property tax bills. The law allowing the votes was passed during a special legislative session last June, but its constitutionality is being challenged in court. If approved by voters, the caps would limit annual property tax increases to either 5% or the rate of inflation, depending on the county.
Why it matters
The property tax cap measures are seen as a way to provide relief to taxpayers, especially in areas where property values have been rising rapidly. However, critics argue the law was passed in an arbitrary way, with some counties excluded and others subject to different cap levels. The outcome of the April votes and the ongoing legal challenge could have significant implications for how property taxes are levied across Missouri.
The details
The law passed in June 2026 allows 75 counties to put a 5% or inflation cap on property tax increases, while 22 counties can vote on a 0% cap. The remaining 17 counties and the city of St. Louis are not subject to the potential caps. The law includes exemptions for taxes dedicated to debt payments or new voter-approved increases. A lawsuit filed by school districts and taxpayers argues the law is unconstitutional, but the judge denied motions to block the April votes or grant a summary judgment.
- The law allowing the property tax cap votes was passed in a special legislative session in June 2026.
- On January 29, 2026, the judge denied a motion to block the April 2026 elections on the property tax caps.
- On February 4, 2026, the judge denied a motion for summary judgment that would have invalidated the law.
The players
Christopher Limbaugh
The Cole County Circuit Judge who denied motions to block the April 2026 elections and grant a summary judgment against the property tax cap law.
Jim Layton
The attorney representing the school districts and taxpayers who filed the lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the property tax cap law.
Sean McDowell
The assistant attorney general who defended the property tax cap law, arguing it has a rational basis even if the divisions between counties are not based on empirical data.
What they’re saying
“What it shows is that there's no pattern here.”
— Jim Layton, Attorney (Missouri Independent)
“It doesn't have to be based on any empirical data or evidence. It can't be, but it doesn't have to be.”
— Sean McDowell, Assistant Attorney General (Missouri Independent)
What’s next
The case will go to trial, and a decision against the law would also invalidate the April 2026 election results on the property tax cap measures.
The takeaway
The upcoming April 2026 elections on property tax caps in 97 Missouri counties highlight the ongoing debate over how to provide tax relief while ensuring fairness and constitutionality. The outcome could have significant implications for homeowners and local governments across the state.
