While federal tax questions have dominated the headlines this election cycle, state and local taxes considerably impact individuals and businesses.

With a week to go before Election Day, taxes are top of mind for many voters. While federal tax questions have dominated the headlines this election cycle, state and local taxes can have a big impact on both individuals and businesses. Here's a look at some of the most significant state tax matters on the ballot—as well as one that fell off (I'm looking at you, California).

A measure in Arizona—Proposition 312—would allow property owners to apply for a property tax refund if they feel that the local government has not done enough to enforce vagrancy and nuisance laws against homeless residents. Specifically, the proposal would allow for a refund application if the city or locality in which the property is located does not enforce laws regarding illegal camping, loitering, obstructing public thoroughfares, panhandling, public urination or defecation, public consumption of alcoholic beverages, and possession or use of illegal substances. Under the proposal, a property owner could apply for this refund once every tax year.

Earlier this year, the California Supreme Court rejected a ballot measure that would make it more difficult to raise taxes in California. The initiative, known as the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act—or TPA—would have required voter approval to raise taxes or fees or to create new taxes. The California Business Roundtable sponsored the measure, and the proposal received enough signatures to qualify for the November 2024 ballot.

However, Governor Gavin Newsom and the California legislature challenged the measure in court, arguing that the proposal wasn't merely an amendment but a virtual rewrite of the state's constitution (that would require a supermajority vote of the legislature or a constitutional convention). The California State Supreme Court agreed, removing the TPA from the November ballot.

Colorado voters will consider Proposition JJ, which would direct all sports betting tax revenue above voter-approved limits on water conservation and protection projects. Sports betting revenues are up in many states, raising questions of how to best spend the money.

Colorado voters will also consider Proposition KK, which would create a 6.5% excise tax on firearms, firearm parts, and ammunition. The tax would be paid by firearm dealers, manufacturers, and ammunition........

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