This bill amends existing Kansas property tax laws to provide exemptions for certain personal property, specifically including watercraft, marine equipment, off-road vehicles, motorized bicycles, and certain trailers. The bill specifies that off-road vehicles not operated on highways, various types of motorized bicycles and scooters, and trailers weighing 15,000 pounds or less used exclusively for personal purposes will be exempt from property taxes. Additionally, the definition of "marine equipment" is clarified to include watercraft trailers and motors, while the previous inclusion of aircraft in the exemption list has been removed.

The bill also outlines the process for property owners to request exemptions from ad valorem property taxes, detailing the necessary forms and procedures for filing such requests with the county appraiser and the state board of tax appeals. It establishes that the provisions will apply to all taxable years commencing after December 31, 2025, and repeals the existing sections of K.S.A. 79-213 and K.S.A. 79-5501. Furthermore, starting January 1, 2026, all watercraft will be exempt from property taxes, marking a significant change in the taxation of personal property in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 79-213, 79-5501
As Amended by Senate Committee: 79-213, 79-5501
As Amended by House Committee: 79-213, 79-5501