The
Issue
California voters approved Proposition 13 in 1978 to address arbitrary and unwarranted property tax increases on residential and commercial real estate. Proposition 13 established a 1 percent tax on the assessed value of all properties in the state. Property assessment increases are also limited to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2 percent each year. When a property is sold or undergoes significant new construction, it is then reassessed to its current fair market value. In a state known for its high tax rates, Proposition 13 has protected both residential and commercial property owners for over 40 years.
The November election in California includes a state ballot initiative that targets a property tax increase on commercial and industrial property owners by lifting the protections afforded under Proposition 13. The split roll initiative, known as Proposition 15, lifts the annual 2 percent cap on increases to commercial and industrial property assessments, while maintaining the current tax treatment for residential, agriculture and multi-family properties. If adopted, commercial and industrial properties would be reassessed to fair market value at least every 3 years starting in 2022. Proposition 15 will force commercial and industrial properties to pay an estimated $11.5 billion in additional property taxes.
Position
NAIOP opposes Prop. 15 and the $11.5 billion tax increase on commercial and industrial properties, which should not be unfairly singled out for tax increases. The protections provided by Proposition 13 should be maintained for both commercial and residential property owners.
Contact
Toby Burke
Associate Vice President for State and Local Affairs
703-904-7100, ext. 116