As Missourians discuss the proposed ballot initiative (Amendment 5 – on the August ballot) to eliminate the state individual income tax, here are some considerations when making a decision.
Missouri Revenue: Individual income tax collections currently account for roughly 60% of Missouri’s net general revenue.
Local Impact: Missouri general revenue is a significant funding source for community-based services delivered through Missouri’s Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). These programs are designed to help older adults and vulnerable individuals live independently in their own homes. Core services include:
- Meals on Wheels & home-delivered nutrition
- In-home personal care assistance
- Family caregiver support programs
Growing Demographic Demands Missouri’s population is changing rapidly. Older adults now represent about a quarter (25%) of the state’s residents, which has steadily increased the demand for independent living and nutrition services.
As voters and lawmakers evaluate proposals to phase out or alter state tax structures, a central focus for aging advocates is ensuring a clear, reliable strategy remains in place to stably fund these high-demand senior services over the long term.
ma4 urges lawmakers and voters to ask a critical question: If the individual income tax is phased out, how will Missouri reliably fund and protect these vital senior services? Any policy shift must prioritize the needs of our rapidly aging communities.