Los Angeles’ “Mansion Tax” – Introduction
In 2022, Los Angeles voters approved a significant change in the city’s real estate transaction tax structure through a ballot initiative that introduced the so-called “mansion tax.”
This new city tax, formally known as the ULA Tax, marked a considerable increase in transaction taxes on real estate transfers within the City of Los Angeles.
The tax rate surged from the previous 0.56% of the property’s price, minus any transferred debt, to a staggering up to 6.06% of the price, debt transfer notwithstanding.
Contrary to what its nickname might suggest, the “mansion tax” applies across all asset classes, not just to large single-family residences.
Legal challenges but still standing
Despite facing legal challenges, including a notable case brought forward by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association against the City of Los Angeles, the ULA Tax has remained in effect.
The plaintiffs argued that the tax constituted a “special tax” prohibited by the California Constitution unless approved by a two-thirds vote.
However, the court ruled that such restrictions did not apply to taxes introduced through citizen initiatives, leading to the dismissal of the claim, which is currently under appeal.
Constitutional amendment vote
A pivotal moment looms in November 2024, as California residents will vote on a constitutional amendment aimed at imposing uniform limits on state and local tax increases.
This amendment, known as the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, or the “Taxpayer Protection Act,” seeks to redefine the passage requirements for local special taxes, among other provisions.
If enacted, the Act would necessitate a two-thirds majority vote for any local special taxes, a significant leap from the simple majority currently required for such measures.
Given the ULA Tax was specifically designed to fund affordable housing and tenant assistance programs, it falls under the category of a special tax and would be subjected to this new requirement.
Moreover, the Taxpayer Protection Act proposes to retroactively invalidate any local special tax enacted after January 1, 2022, unless it is re-approved by the electorate under the tougher supermajority conditions.
This clause directly threatens the ULA Tax, passed in November 2022 with 57.77% of the vote, as it would necessitate re-adoption within a 12-month window or face repeal.
The plot thickens
Complicating matters further, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom and the state legislature have initiated legal action to prevent the Taxpayer Protection Act from appearing on the November ballot.
Their challenge contends that the Act constitutes an unconstitutional overhaul of the California Constitution via voter initiative and could severely impair vital governmental functions.
The outcome of this legal battle remains pending.
Los Angeles’ “Mansion Tax” – Conclusion
As November 2024 approaches, the fate of the ULA Tax hangs in the balance, poised to be a central issue in the broader debate over tax regulation and government funding mechanisms in California.
Final thoughts
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