I’m here to share some important updates from February 4th, in which we had passed a bill that introduces a property tax exemption specifically for homeowners as well as specific conditions under which the exemption applies.
We passed Senate File 69 23-8, which reduces residential property taxes by 50%. There was no “backfill” to local governments and the cuts will sunset in 2 years, pending a ballot measure the people will have a chance to vote on at the next election. Despite some reservations, I voted yes.
A 50% cut was larger than I would have liked, I supported a 25% reduction which was consistent with the feedback I heard on the campaign trail.
I also supported the idea of backfilling our local governments that are going to bear the brunt of these reductions. We have passed another bill that divert more sales taxes to local governments which will help ease the burden.
Even though these important provisions were not to my liking, it is also important to remember that residential property taxes are only 6% of Converse County’s budget and 16.6% of Natrona County’s budget. We are also blessed with special districts that do not levy their full mills.
Ultimately, the people will decide whether to make these changes permanent. It is important to understand there will be reductions in services that accompany these cuts before we vote in the 2026 general election.
Thank you for taking the time to read this update as well as your support and engagement!
Please feel free to reach out with any questions, concerns, and/or feedback.
(307)-359-0707
Extras
Chief Washakie (Wasaukee)
Chief Washakie was a distinguished warrior and leader for the Eastern Shoshone tribe. He was widely recognized for his significant role in negotiating with the United States Government to secure the Wind River Reservation as a homeland for his people, effectively preserving a large tract of land. Chief Washakie was also well known for his peaceful approaches to conflicts, his ability to form important relationships white settlers, and his leadership as well as diplomatic skills.
Esther Hobart Morris
Esther Hobart Morris was a significant figure in the fight for women's suffrage in the Wyoming Territory and the first woman to serve as Justice of the Peace in the United States. She was initially appointed justice of South Pass City, Wyoming, after the previous justice resigned in protest following the passage of the women's suffrage amendment in the Wyoming Territory in December 1869.
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