Louisiana 2020 1st Special Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SCR19

Introduced
6/16/20  
Introduced
6/16/20  
Refer
6/17/20  
Refer
6/17/20  
Report Pass
6/18/20  
Passed
6/19/20  
Passed
6/19/20  
Engrossed
6/22/20  
Engrossed
6/22/20  
Refer
6/23/20  
Refer
6/23/20  

Caption

Creates the Louisiana Sales Tax Simplification Task Force to develop a comprehensive plan to simplify Louisiana's sales tax administration and collection system. (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws revolves around the establishment of a task force that will review the current sales tax framework in Louisiana, which has been criticized for its complexities and discrepancies between state and local tax bases. The resolution draws attention to Louisiana's high average sales tax rate and the challenges posed by divergent local and state systems that can undermine business operations, especially with the rising shift towards e-commerce and service-based economies. The recommendations provided by the task force are expected to pave the way for streamlined practices that would ensure revenue stability and bolster taxpayer equity.

Summary

SCR19, also known as the Louisiana Sales Tax Simplification Task Force resolution, aims to create a dedicated task force to study and make recommendations for modernizing and simplifying Louisiana's complex sales tax administration and collection system. The primary objective of the task force is to enhance the efficiency of the state's sales tax policies for both local taxing authorities and businesses while addressing significant structural issues that have arisen over the years. The task force is tasked with submitting a final report to the legislature that will encapsulate detailed plans for long-term improvements in sales tax legislation and practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR19 appears to be supportive, particularly among the business community, who have long advocated for a more uniform sales tax structure to improve operational efficiency. By promoting simplified tax protocols, the resolution is aligned with efforts to encourage economic competitiveness and better fiscal management at the state and local levels. However, underlying tensions will likely arise as reforms could potentially lead to shifts in local government revenue generation methods, which could provoke debates about local autonomy and control over tax policies.

Contention

While the establishment of the Louisiana Sales Tax Simplification Task Force is seen as a positive step towards necessary reform, there may be contention regarding how proposed changes could affect local governments' ability to levy their own sales taxes independently. This raises concerns about the potential loss of local revenue sources and the complexity that may arise from implementing a more centralized state tax administration. The resolution exemplifies the delicate balance that must be maintained between improving state tax efficiencies and preserving local authorities' rights to manage their own fiscal policies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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