Louisiana House Bill HB592

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/17/19
• Refer: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/6/19
• Engrossed: 5/27/19
• Refer: 5/28/19
• Report Pass: 5/30/19
• Refer: 5/30/19

Caption

Excludes amounts deposited into certain education savings accounts for tuition expenses for elementary and secondary schools from state income taxes (RE DECREASE GF RV See Note)

Impact

The immediate impact of HB 592 on Louisiana state tax law is significant, as it will change how taxpayers with children can use their savings to fund education. By allowing these exclusions, the state aims to encourage parents to utilize the START K12 Program more effectively, thereby promoting education funding. However, it is important to note that deposits withdrawn for non-qualified uses in the same taxable year are still subjected to tax. This change suggests an intention to incentivize parents to save and spend on education while establishing clear guidelines on usage and taxation.

Summary

House Bill 592 aims to enhance the Louisiana Student Tuition Assistance and Revenue Trust Kindergarten Through Grade Twelve (START K12) Program by allowing certain deposits made into education savings accounts for elementary and secondary school tuition to be excluded from state income tax. This bill aligns the tax treatment of these educational savings accounts with those already available for postsecondary education, allowing filers to deduct up to $2,400 if filing as single and $4,800 for joint filers. However, the bill introduces stricter rules as it prohibits claiming both the tax exclusion for deposits and a tax deduction for costs associated with education in the same year.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 592 is largely positive among proponents, particularly among those advocating for educational savings and parental choice in education funding. Supporters argue that this bill will make education more affordable and accessible for families. Conversely, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for reduced funding for public schools, with critics fearing that tax exemptions could detract from state revenue allocations toward public education.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from the balance between supporting educational funding through savings mechanisms and the preservation of public school funding. While supporters tout the advantages of allowing families greater flexibility in financing education, opponents caution about the implications of less state revenue for public schools. The prohibition against claiming both a tax exclusion for education savings and a deduction for school costs raises questions about how families will navigate their educational expenses. This aspect of the bill might lead to further discussions and potential amendments as stakeholders weigh the financial implications.