Connecticut House Bill HB06953

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/15
• Refer: 3/4/15
• Report Pass: 3/27/15
• Refer: 4/10/15
• Report Pass: 4/16/15
• Engrossed: 5/7/15
• Report Pass: 5/11/15

Caption

An Act Requiring Information On The Bifurcation Of Municipal Tax Bills.

Impact

Once enacted, HB 06953 will modify existing statutes concerning municipal taxation, particularly section 12-130 of the general statutes. The bill requires municipalities to provide specific financial breakdowns in their tax communications. This includes detailing the estimated amount from state aid that contributes to the funding of local governments and the board of education, along with the percentages that reflect the financial responsibility borne by taxpayers for municipal operations and educational services.

Summary

House Bill 06953, known as 'An Act Requiring Information On The Bifurcation Of Municipal Tax Bills', aims to enhance the transparency and informational standards associated with municipal tax bills in Connecticut. The bill mandates that municipalities include detailed statements alongside tax bills, informing residents of state aid received and how tax revenue is allocated across general government and board of education expenditures. This requirement is designed to improve taxpayer awareness regarding how their taxes influence local budget priorities.

Sentiment

The reception of HB 06953 has been mixed. Supporters argue that the bill promotes transparency in local governance, ensuring taxpayers are well-informed about how their contributions are utilized. They view the measure as a necessary step toward fostering trust between municipalities and their residents. On the contrary, some critics question the practicality of the added complexity to tax bills, fearing it could overwhelm residents or lead to confusion, negating the intended clarity.

Contention

A significant point of contention may arise regarding the additional administrative burden this bill introduces for municipalities, particularly smaller towns. Some fear that the requirements could strain local government resources, especially in towns with limited staff and funding. The debate centers on the balance between transparency and maintainability of local governance practices, which could potentially influence the legislative discussions surrounding the bill's implementation.