About Prop E

Proposition E is a ballot measure that asks voters in the City of St. Louis whether the city should continue its existing 1% earnings tax. The earnings tax applies to income earned by people who live or work within the City of St. Louis.

Missouri state law requires the City of St. Louis to periodically ask voters whether this tax should remain in place. As a result, Proposition E appears on the ballot approximately every five years.

What the Earnings Tax Is

The St. Louis earnings tax is a 1% tax on earned income, including:

• Wages and salaries

• Commissions

• Self-employment income

• Other forms of earned compensation

The tax is paid by both city residents and non-residents who work within city limits.

Why It Appears on the Ballot

Under Missouri law, St. Louis and Kansas City are required to hold a public vote on their local earnings tax every five years. Proposition E is the measure that allows voters to decide whether the tax should continue.

How the Revenue Is Used

Revenue from the earnings tax is one of the largest funding sources for the City of St. Louis and helps support essential city services, including:

• Public safety such as police and fire departments

• Street maintenance and public infrastructure

• Parks and recreation programs

• Trash collection and sanitation services

• General city operations

What Happens After the Vote

• If voters approve Proposition E: The 1% earnings tax will continue as a source of revenue for the city.

• If voters do not approve Proposition E: Missouri law requires the earnings tax to be gradually phased out over time.