State employees association urges North Carolina voters to reject two tax amendments
RALEIGH, N.C. (WWAY) — The State Employees Association of North Carolina (SEANC) is urging voters to reject two proposed constitutional amendments on the November ballot, arguing the measures could limit funding for schools, public safety and other government services.
In a statement released Monday, Oct. 19, SEANC announced its opposition to Amendments 2 and 3, which would establish constitutional limits on state income taxes and local property taxes.
Amendment 2 would cap North Carolina’s maximum state income tax rate at 3.5%, while Amendment 3 would limit property tax increases by local governments.
SEANC argues both measures would restrict the ability of state and local governments to respond to future financial needs and fund essential services.
“These amendments would lock today’s politics into the Constitution and tie the hands of every legislature, county commission, and city council that comes after,” said SEANC Executive Director Ardis Watkins.
Watkins said state employees have already experienced challenges related to staffing shortages and pay increases that have not kept pace with the cost of living.
According to SEANC, the proposed income tax cap could affect funding for public schools, universities, prisons, the Highway Patrol and state employee salaries and benefits.
The organization also argues that placing a tax limit in the state constitution could make it more difficult for lawmakers to respond to economic downturns, emergencies and future budget needs.
SEANC expressed similar concerns about Amendment 3, saying restrictions on local property tax increases could limit funding for schools, law enforcement, fire departments, emergency services and infrastructure projects.
“Local communities know their needs best,” Watkins said. “A one-size-fits-all limit written in Raleigh doesn’t.”
Supporters of tax limits generally argue that constitutional caps can protect taxpayers from future tax increases and encourage government spending restraint. SEANC, however, maintains the proposed amendments would make it more difficult to maintain public services.
Both amendments would require voter approval to become part of the North Carolina Constitution.
Early voting is underway and continues through 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
The proposed amendments appear near the end of the ballot, following candidate races.
Voters can find additional election information, including early voting locations and polling places, through the North Carolina State Board of Elections.
