Dakota property tax ballot

North Dakota voters will decide in the November 5 general election whether to eliminate property taxes, a move that could significantly alter the state's funding structure. The initiative, backed by former state Rep. Rick Becker and dubbed 'End Unfair Property Tax', successfully gathered over 35,720 valid signatures, exceeding the required threshold of 31,164. If passed, the measure would prohibit local governments from levying property taxes except for bonded indebtedness, potentially costing the state about $1.3 billion in annual revenue. The initiative has faced criticism, as property taxes are crucial for funding essential local services. This measure follows a previous failed attempt in 2012 and comes amid ongoing national discussions on property tax relief. The ballot will also include three other legislative measures and possibly a measure to legalize recreational marijuana.