Saline County Appraiser Sean Robertson highlighted a proposed Kansas bill that would exempt off-road vehicles, boats, and trailers from personal property taxes, pointing out inconsistencies in how these taxes are currently applied. Robertson, representing the Kansas County Appraiser’s Association, argued the legislation would create fairness in the state’s tax system.

He illustrated the issue using a trailer: if used to haul hay or mowers for business, it is tax-exempt, but if used for personal tasks like hauling household items, it is taxed.

Senate Bill 10, which is under review, would exempt off-road vehicles like ATVs, snowmobiles, and golf carts, as well as trailers under 15,000 pounds and watercraft, including their trailers. Set to begin in 2026, the bill could reduce state property tax revenue by $190,000 and school property taxes by $2.5 million annually, with unclear local impacts.

While some, including Sen. Caryn Tyson, praised the bill’s practicality, others, like Sen. Mary Ware and Kari Sue Vosburgh, criticized it for prioritizing recreational vehicle owners over lower-income Kansans and residential property tax relief.

Amendments, including a potential exemption for leisure aircraft and mobility devices for veterans, were also discussed.