Connecticut House Bill HB05485

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/16
• Refer: 2/26/16

Caption

An Act Concerning Municipal Taxation.

Impact

Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that allows municipalities to abate property tax for real properties that are rendered uninhabitable due to damage from natural disasters. This measure is intended to provide financial relief to property owners who are unable to use their property until it is restored. The tax abatement can be initiated by a municipality's legislative body or by the board of selectmen in town meetings, demonstrating a degree of local governance and control over tax policies in response to extraordinary events.

Summary

House Bill 05485 aims to amend existing laws regarding municipal taxation by removing the previously established three-year limitation on correcting clerical omissions or mistakes in tax assessments. According to the new provisions, such corrections can be made at any time following the tax due date. This change is intended to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of property tax assessments within municipalities, allowing for adjustments that better reflect the actual circumstances surrounding property evaluations. The bill also requires that property owners are notified of any increases in assessments due to corrections, ensuring transparency in the taxation process.

Contention

While proponents of HB 05485 argue that these changes will lead to fairer tax assessments and provide necessary relief to those affected by natural disasters, some opponents may express concerns about potential abuses of the new provisions and the administrative burden of implementing changes without a clear cap on the timeframe for corrections. As municipalities adapt to these new responsibilities, the overarching debate will likely center around the balance of local control and the state’s regulatory frameworks in taxation processes.