Connecticut Senate Bill SB00414

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/3/16
• Report Pass: 4/7/16
• Refer: 4/18/16
• Report Pass: 4/21/16

Caption

An Act Concerning The Tax On College Property.

Impact

This bill will potentially affect a variety of institutions including Trinity College and Yale University, changing how their properties are assessed for tax purposes. The introduced financial limits—including that properties yielding more than $6,000 annually or having a total value exceeding $2 billion—will limit the scope of tax exemptions previously available to these institutions. In effect, this may increase the tax revenue from college-owned properties and shift the financial burden towards these institutions.

Summary

Substitute Bill No. 414, known as the Act Concerning the Tax on College Property, modifies the taxation policies relating to properties owned by certain higher education institutions in Connecticut. The bill specifically alters section 12-81 of the general statutes by outlining conditions under which property owned by colleges and universities can be exempt from taxation. Notably, it establishes financial thresholds and types of activities that must be considered when determining eligibility for such exemptions, such as generating income for for-profit entities.

Sentiment

Reactions to SB00414 appear to be divided among stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill creates a fair framework for imposing taxes on affluent educational institutions, ensuring they contribute economically to the state. Conversely, critics may view it as a potential risk to educational revenues and mission objectives, fearing that taxing educational properties could lead to increased tuition or decreased funding for programs, thus impacting students and the broader education community.

Contention

Debate surrounding this bill is likely to center on the fairness of taxing educational properties versus their contributions to society, particularly regarding how these institutions serve public interests. Opponents may also raise concerns over how the new thresholds could change the operations of non-profit educational institutions and the potential repercussions on their long-term financial stability.