This one is pretty straightforward: Should first responders (police officers, firefighters, and paramedics) who have been permanently disabled while doing their job (i.e. putting out a fire) have to pay property taxes?
Here’s what you’ll see on your ballot:
NO. 3
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ARTICLE VII, SECTION 6, ARTICLE XIITax Exemption for Totally and Permanently Disabled First Responders
Proposing an amendment to the State Constitution to authorize a first responder, who is totally and permanently disabled as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty, to receive relief from ad valorem taxes assessed on homestead property, if authorized by general law. If approved by voters, the amendment takes effect January 1, 2017.
If you vote —
Yes
A first responder who is disabled while on the job will not have to pay property taxes anymore.
No
Everything stays the same. Disabled first responders still pay property taxes.
Supporters say:
Widowed spouses of first responders already don’t have to pay property taxes. This benefit should be extended to first responders who were permanently injured or disabled in the line of duty to be honor them for their service.
Opponents say:
This exemption would increase everyone else’s property taxes and make the tax system more unfair.