Missourians for Fair Taxation

Missouri's political fundraising in 2023 is dominated by ballot measure campaigns for four constitutional amendments on the August 4 primary ballot, with over $27 million raised. Amendments 4 and 5 have attracted the most funding, with Amendment 4 opponents raising $6 million and $5.3 million respectively, while Amendment 5 supporters have raised $12.7 million.

The Missouri Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal over the ballot summary for Amendment 5, which would allow lawmakers to increase sales tax to replace income tax. The decision upholds revised summary language from an appeals court, finalizing the version voters will see on the August 4 ballot. Proponents, including Governor Mike Kehoe, support the measure, while opponents argue it would impose higher taxes on everyday goods and services.

The Missouri Association of Realtors donated $1.9 million to oppose Amendment 5, a proposed tax plan that would allow lawmakers to eliminate Missouri’s income tax through expanded sales taxes. Opponents argue the amendment could undermine constitutional protections against real estate transfer taxes and new sales taxes on services, while supporters claim it aims to create a stronger economy by replacing income tax.

A Missouri proposal to replace the state individual income tax with expanded sales taxes will appear on the Aug. 4 ballot as Amendment 5, according to a Cole County judge's ruling. Opponents challenged the measure, arguing it violates constitutional requirements, but the judge dismissed these claims, allowing the initiative to proceed.