Minnesota’s tax law places a burden on farmers when it comes to property tax levies for school construction bonds. Farmers who own lots of valuable land make up a substantial portion of the tax base in many rural school districts. While they get a break on school operating tax levy referendums, farmers pay the full levy on school building bonds,  and when farmers are struggling to make a profit, these tax obligations can be devastating.

Even farmers who support education and have kids in the affected schools can feel resentment.

Minnesota’s tax bill, which died on the governor’s desk last spring, contained a 40 percent tax break for farmers on these kinds of levies.  Gov. Mark Dayton and legislative leaders should make sure this measure passes this time around.

It would be good for farmers, and good for school districts that need to expand or replace aging schools and facilities. They are having a tough time passing these tax referendums because of the impact on farmers. Giving farmers a break will give school districts a better chance to get the approval they need.