CHEYENNE, Wyo.—Wyoming voters will decide Proposition 1, a citizen-initiated property-tax measure that would exempt 50% of the assessed value of a qualifying primary residence’s dwelling from property taxes.
The proposal would apply to the home itself, but not the land. Eligibility generally requires that the homeowner be a Wyoming resident and use the property as a primary residence.
Estimates suggest the measure could reduce property-tax collections by roughly $90 million to $125 million annually, with the impact spread across schools, counties, local governments and special districts.
The initiative comes after Wyoming lawmakers enacted a series of property-tax relief measures in recent years, including a 25% exemption for qualifying residential property, a 4% assessment cap and additional relief for certain long-term homeowners.
Supporters argue another reduction is needed after sharp increases in residential property values pushed tax bills higher in many parts of the state. The Wyoming Republican Party has endorsed the initiative.
Opponents, including some local officials, community colleges and taxpayer groups, have raised concerns about the effect on public services and the absence of a dedicated replacement for lost revenue.
The proposal would add to property-tax relief already enacted by the Legislature and could significantly reduce revenue available to schools and local governments.
Proposition 1 is also notable as the first citizen initiative to appear on Wyoming’s statewide ballot in decades.
