Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05545

Introduced
3/11/14  
Refer
3/11/14  
Report Pass
3/25/14  
Report Pass
3/25/14  
Refer
4/1/14  
Refer
4/1/14  
Report Pass
4/8/14  

Caption

An Act Concerning A Comprehensive Study Of The State's Tax Structure.

Impact

The impact of HB 5545 is designed to be significant, as it directly addresses the efficiency and fairness of the state's tax policies. The proposed study will assess multiple facets of taxation, including personal income tax, corporate business tax, sales and use tax, local property tax, and state revenue sources such as estate and gift taxes. By establishing a thorough framework for evaluation, the bill seeks to ensure that any future tax reforms will be grounded in solid analysis, potentially leading to a tax system that better aligns with contemporary economic realities.

Summary

House Bill 5545 aims to conduct a comprehensive study of the state's tax structure in order to develop revenue-neutral policy options that would modernize the existing tax system. The study's goals include increasing simplicity, fairness, economic competitiveness, and affordability. To achieve this, the bill establishes a panel of experts appointed by legislative leaders to analyze various forms of taxation and their impact on the state's economy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5545 appears to be cautiously optimistic among supporters who see value in a structured and expert-driven approach to tax reform. Advocates argue that the bill provides a formal mechanism for gathering insights from a diverse group of stakeholders, promoting a more equitable tax system. However, there may also be concerns regarding the implementation of recommendations that arise from the study, especially if they involve changes to existing tax burdens or introduce new taxes that could affect various populations.

Contention

One notable point of contention related to HB 5545 may center on the balancing act of ensuring fairness and competitiveness in the tax structure without imposing undue burdens on residents and businesses. Different interests—including small businesses, large corporations, and resident advocacy groups—may have varying expectations regarding what constitutes a fair tax system. As such, the effectiveness and outcomes of the proposed study may lead to debates regarding which recommendations to adopt and how to implement them without exacerbating existing inequities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.