Dear editor:
There’s a quiet strength in the Wyoming way of life—a belief in hard work, personal responsibility, and fairness. These values are woven into our heritage: face each day with courage, take pride in your work, and finish what you start. As Wyoming faces rising costs, these principles are more important than ever—especially in our tax system. On Nov. 5, Amendment A offers the foundation needed to modernize property tax assessments, giving homeowners the relief they deserve while upholding fairness.
A Clear-Cut Path to Fairness Without Revenue Loss
Amendment A is straightforward. It doesn’t overhaul the tax system; it simply allows for a more balanced approach. Right now, family homes—where people raise children, plan futures, and invest savings—are taxed like investment properties and vacation homes. That’s a mistake.
Amendment A doesn’t mean revenue loss, as some suggest. Instead, it gives the Legislature flexibility to create targeted tax relief for homeowners while ensuring that investment or commercial properties continue to generate revenue. Separating primary residences from other properties ensures tax fairness without sacrificing essential services.
Realigning Our Commitment to Homeowners
Wyoming believes that your home is more than just shelter—it’s your stake in the community. If you work hard and care for your family, you should have stability. But today’s tax system treats family homes the same as rental properties owned by out-of-state investors. That’s not the Wyoming way.
Amendment A realigns our tax code with our values. It gives the Legislature the flexibility to differentiate between those who live and work in their homes and those who treat property as an investment. This isn’t just about taxes—it’s about fairness.
Modern Solutions for a Wyoming Tradition
Some may worry that Amendment A opens the door to favoritism or misuse. But this isn’t about unchecked power. It’s about empowering the Legislature to create laws that ensure fairness. With the right oversight and accountability, these laws will benefit all Wyomingites.
Here’s what keeps the system honest:
- Clear Standards: The Legislature must define what qualifies as an owner-occupied home, ensuring fairness for everyone.
- Transparency: Every assessment must be open to scrutiny, so homeowners can contest unfair taxes.
- Audits and Oversight: Amendment A includes audits and oversight to prevent misuse.
These protections reflect our belief in a government that works for the people.
Grounded in Fairness
Wyoming was built by people who lived by a code—integrity, fairness, and resilience. That same code should guide how we approach property taxes. Amendment A ensures hardworking families aren’t unfairly taxed at the same rates as out-of-state investors.
Just as a rancher wouldn’t ask his neighbor to carry his load, we shouldn’t ask our homeowners to bear the same tax burden as landlords and developers. This is about fairness, plain and simple.
A Call to Action
In politics, some shy away from change. But when change is rooted in fairness, it strengthens us. Amendment A reinforces Wyoming’s spirit. It creates a tax system that’s fair to those who’ve made Wyoming their home.
On Nov. 5, by voting YES on Amendment A, we honor the values that have always guided us: fairness, responsibility, and the courage to do what’s right.
Sincerely
Jason Mower
Rock Springs
