Louisiana House Bill HB620

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/15
• Refer: 4/3/15
• Refer: 4/13/15

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Phases-in over a four year period an exemption for items constituting business inventory (OR -$243,000,000 LF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 620 would significantly alter how business inventory is taxed in Louisiana. The phased exemption is intended to stimulate business growth by reducing the financial burden on businesses related to inventory taxation. The bill's introduction aims to encourage investment and enhance the competitiveness of local businesses by allowing them to allocate more resources towards operations rather than taxation. Additionally, it seeks to ensure that local governments do not lose crucial revenue without adequate compensatory measures being in place.

Summary

House Bill 620 proposes a constitutional amendment to gradually exempt items constituting business inventory from ad valorem property tax in Louisiana. The exemption is designed to be implemented over a four-year phase-in period, starting at a 50% exemption rate for the 2015 tax year and progressing to full exemption by 2018. The bill mandates that any reduction in property tax revenue resulting from this exemption must be absorbed by the taxing authorities, ensuring no increase in tax liability for taxpayers or triggers for property reappraisals.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 620 appears to reflect divisions between pro-business advocates and concerns regarding local government revenue. Supporters argue that the bill will foster economic growth and support local businesses, leading to job creation and community development. Conversely, critics warn that the bill may undermine local governments' ability to fund essential services, as it reduces available tax revenue without alternative revenue sources. This tension between economic incentives for businesses and financial sustainability for local governments is a prominent theme in discussions surrounding the bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 620 include the implications of revenue loss for local governments and the potential for unequal impacts across different regions of the state. Those who oppose the bill express concerns that local governments already face budgetary constraints and that reducing tax revenue could exacerbate financial challenges. There are also discussions about the fairness of externalizing taxation burdens, raising questions about the long-term economic ramifications, including the ability of local governments to provide necessary services to their constituents.