By Scout Nelson
Two of North Dakota’s largest farm organizations are taking opposing positions on Measure 4, a ballot initiative that could significantly change how farmland is taxed and impact local government funding. The measure will be decided in the upcoming general election on November 5.
The North Dakota Farm Bureau has come out in support of Measure 4, which, if passed, would eliminate property taxes based on assessed value. Farm Bureau President Daryl Lies emphasized the organization’s view, stating,
“The freedom to own property is the foundation of our American dream. We believe the passage of Measure 4 will enhance our freedom by removing valuation-based taxation of our private property.”
In contrast, the North Dakota Farmers Union, the state’s largest general farm organization, opposes Measure 4. While the union supports property tax relief, it is concerned about the broader implications of eliminating property taxes.
“There’s really no plan for replacing those revenues,” said Matt Perdue, policy analyst for the Farmers Union. Perdue also warned that the measure could shift financial control away from local governments, disproportionately affecting rural communities.
The state estimates that the passage of Measure 4 could result in a $3.15 billion loss in revenue for the 2025-2027 biennium. Despite these concerns, Lies said the Farm Bureau is committed to working with the Legislature to ensure funding for municipalities and replace lost revenue.
Rick Becker, a vocal supporter of the measure, argued that the state has enough funds to offset the losses in local property tax revenue, advocating for cuts to wasteful spending.
Currently, North Dakota farmstead homes and buildings are exempt from property taxation, but the land they sit on remains subject to taxes.
The fate of Measure 4 will be decided by North Dakota voters in November.
Photo Credit: pexels-nataliya-vaitkevich
Categories: North Dakota, General, Government & Policy