Louisiana House Bill HB1043

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/6/22

Caption

Establishes a rebate for certain Louisiana residents who paid state excise taxes levied on gasoline, diesel, and special fuels (OR +$71,865,261 GF EX See Note)

Impact

The bill aims to create a fund known as the Louisiana Gas Tax Rebate Fund, which will be utilized to provide these rebates. The Secretary of the Department of Revenue is tasked with managing this fund and processing applications from October 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022. Additionally, the rebate will be exempt from seizure for debts, with some exceptions, thereby providing a layer of financial security for recipients. However, the rebate does not extend to commercial vehicles or electric and hybrid vehicles, potentially limiting its benefits to a specific segment of the population.

Summary

House Bill 1043 proposes a $25 rebate for Louisiana residents who file individual state income tax returns and have paid the state excise tax on gasoline, diesel, and special fuels. This rebate is specifically designated for private-use automobiles and is intended to provide financial relief to taxpayers burdened by fuel taxes. The bill mandates that applicants demonstrate compliance with vehicle registration and tax obligations, ensuring that the rebate targets eligible participants effectively.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB 1043 reflect a generally positive sentiment from lawmakers advocating for the bill, citing the need to support residents facing rising fuel costs. The rebate is viewed as a straightforward, beneficial initiative that could provide relief to many families. However, potential opposition may arise from concerns about the exclusion of certain vehicle types, which some critics argue could leave many residents, particularly those with eco-friendly vehicles, without similar financial support.

Contention

Notable points of contention may include the operational aspects of administering the rebate, specifically regarding verification of eligibility and the management of funds allocated to the rebate. Furthermore, discussions could emerge on the long-term sustainability of such rebates and their impact on state revenue. Legislators might debate the merits of targeting rebates towards particular vehicle types and how this aligns with broader goals of environmental sustainability and transportation equity.