Kansas Approves Measure For Lowering Boat Taxes

Kansas voters have approved a change in the state constitution aimed at lowering property taxes on boats.

The measure was supported by about 54 percent of voters in Tuesday’s election. It allows the Legislature to set up a new system for taxing watercraft.

Kansas boat owners now pay property taxes on 30 percent of their boats’ appraised value, tied largely to levies that are set by cities, counties and school districts. Critics of the current system say the Kansas taxes are significantly higher than those in other states.

The measure was backed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. The agency hoped it would encourage more residents to purchase and register boats in the state, offsetting any potential loss in tax revenues.