Kansas House Bill HB2219

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 3/25/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Allowing an itemized deduction for certain wagering losses for individual income tax purposes.

Impact

The introduction of HB 2219 is expected to have a significant impact on state tax laws regarding individual income taxation. If enacted, the bill would particularly influence individuals who engage in gambling activities, allowing them to deduct a portion of their losses from their taxable income, which could lead to lower overall tax liabilities for these taxpayers. This change may also set a precedent for future discussions around tax deductions related to gambling and the gaming industry in Kansas.

Summary

House Bill 2219 aims to create an itemized deduction for certain wagering losses for individuals in the state of Kansas. The bill amends existing statutes to allow individuals to claim losses from wagering transactions as part of their itemized deductions on the state income tax. By modifying the current deduction rules, the bill seeks to provide taxpayers with more opportunity to offset their gambling losses against their taxable income, thus potentially alleviating some of the financial burden for individuals who incur these losses.

Contention

During discussions related to HB 2219, various points of contention emerged regarding the implications of allowing such deductions. Supporters argue that it is a fair move that acknowledges the realities of gambling and provides some financial relief to taxpayers who invest in gaming activities. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for abuse of the deduction and whether it sends the right message regarding gambling's role in society and the state's tax revenue. Additionally, there could be debates about the fairness of extending such deductions compared to other sectors that might face losses yet do not have similar tax relief measures available.