(The Center Square) — Louisiana voters will decide Nov. 3 whether to give local governments greater flexibility to temporarily reduce property tax rates without permanently surrendering their authority to collect taxes at previously authorized levels.

The proposal, appearing as Amendment 2 on the statewide ballot, would change how local governments manage property tax rates.

Louisiana’s property tax system uses millage rates, which determine how much property owners pay based on their property’s taxable assessed value.

Under existing rules, local governments that voluntarily lower their millage rates can face restrictions when attempting to restore them.

The amendment would allow taxing authorities to return to previously authorized maximum rates without seeking additional voter approval.

Supporters of the change could argue that it encourages local governments to provide temporary tax relief without jeopardizing future revenue. However, the proposal would also give local officials greater discretion to increase rates later.

A vote in favor would authorize the change, while a vote against would preserve the existing limitations.

The proposal requires approval from a majority of voters to become part of Louisiana’s constitution.