§ 2.
Classification of property for taxation--Income.
To the end that the burden of
taxation may be equitable upon all property, and in order that no property which is made subject
to taxation shall escape, the Legislature is empowered to divide all property including moneys
and credits as well as physical property into classes and to determine what class or classes of
property shall be subject to taxation and what property, if any, shall not be subject to taxation.
Taxes shall be uniform on all property of the same class, and shall be levied and collected for
public purposes only. Taxes may be imposed upon any and all property including privileges,
franchises and licenses to do business in the state. Gross earnings and net incomes may be
considered in taxing any and all property, and the valuation of property for taxation purposes
shall never exceed the actual value thereof. The Legislature is empowered to impose taxes upon
incomes and occupations, and taxes upon incomes may be graduated and progressive and
reasonable exemptions may be provided.
History: Amendment proposed by SL 1911, ch 265, approved Nov., 1912; amendment proposed by SL 1917, ch 161, approved Nov., 1918; amendment proposed by SL 1953, ch 308, rejected Nov., 1954.