Louisiana Senate Bill SB444

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/6/22
• Report Pass: 4/18/22
• Engrossed: 4/21/22
• Refer: 4/25/22
• Report Pass: 5/16/22
• Enrolled: 6/3/22
• Chaptered: 6/15/22
• Passed: 6/15/22

Caption

Provides relative to tax administration and the Board of Tax Appeals. (2/3 - CA7s2.1(A)) (gov sig) (EN INCREASE SG RV See Note)

Impact

The bill signals a significant shift in how tax-related issues will be handled in Louisiana. By granting the Board of Tax Appeals more authority to address and enforce compliance among tax preparers, it aims to increase accountability and transparency within the tax preparation industry. The board's jurisdiction has been broadened regarding the administration and collection of occupancy taxes, providing these taxes are governed by the established provisions outlined in the bill. This change is expected to streamline tax processes, improve revenue collection, and offer better safeguarding against potential abuses by tax preparers.

Summary

Senate Bill 444 aims to amend and reenact specific sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes related to tax administration and the Board of Tax Appeals. The bill seeks to enhance the board's powers, enabling it to issue protective orders, provide greater oversight on tax preparers' conduct, and ensure better administration of occupancy taxes. Notably, it allows the secretary of revenue to issue cease and desist orders against tax preparers engaging in misconduct, with penalties for violations intended to protect taxpayers from unethical practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 444 appears to be largely positive, particularly among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards tightening regulations within the tax preparation sector. Advocates believe the bill will enhance consumer protection and ensure that tax preparers operate ethically. Conversely, some local tax preparers may express concerns regarding increased regulatory scrutiny and penalties that could affect their business practices. Overall, the bill has generated constructive dialogues about the balance between regulation and business operations in the tax domain.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding SB 444 may arise from the imposition of severe penalties on tax preparers and the potential for the board's expanded authority to be perceived as overreach. Critics could argue that such regulations might create an environment of fear for tax preparers, discouraging their ability to operate freely and potentially damaging the relationship between preparers and clients. The implications of issuing cease and desist orders could lead to legal challenges and a call for a more moderated approach that does not disproportionately affect smaller tax preparers.