Mo. Senate passes repeal of renters' tax break

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Missouri Senate has passed legislation that would abolish a tax break for low-income seniors and disabled people who live in rental homes.

The Senate's 21-12 vote Tuesday sends the legislation to the House, which already has passed a budget plan assuming the renters' tax break would be eliminated.

For the past 30 years, Missouri has offered an income tax credit intended to offset part of the property taxes paid by lower-income seniors and disabled residents.

A commission appointed by Gov. Jay Nixon recommended the tax break be repealed for renters but kept for homeowners. It concluded there is not enough evidence that property taxes are rolled into rent.

The bill passed Tuesday would redirect $57 million from the abolished tax break to existing health, mental health and social services.

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Renters' tax break bill is SB350.

Online:

Senate: http://www.senate.mo.gov