Connecticut House Bill HB05924

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/11
• Refer: 1/24/11

Caption

An Act Requiring Written Notice Of Property Taxes.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05924 would amend general statutes concerning property tax notification in municipalities. The legislation would establish a formal process by which municipalities are required to notify taxpayers of the tax amounts due. In implementing this bill, municipalities would also charge a fee of fifty dollars to the taxpayer requesting the notice, an aspect that could be met with mixed reactions from the public. Proponents may argue that the fee is justified as it covers administrative costs, while opponents might consider it an undue burden on taxpayers.

Summary

House Bill 05924, introduced by Representative Hetherington, seeks to mandate that municipalities provide written notice to taxpayers regarding the amount of property taxes owed prior to the accrual of any interest or penalties. This proposed legislation aims to improve communication between municipalities and taxpayers, ensuring that individuals are informed about their financial obligations in a timely manner. By requiring this notification upon a written request from the taxpayer, the bill could help prevent unexpected tax liabilities and foster greater fiscal responsibility among residents.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 05924 include the implications of charging taxpayers for this notification service. Critics may assert that introducing any fee for receiving property tax notices can exacerbate the financial strain on residents, particularly those already struggling with high property taxes. Additionally, there could be concerns about the efficiency of municipal operations in managing such requests and providing timely notifications. The need for a balance between efficient administration and fairness to taxpayers will likely drive discussions as the bill progresses.