Mississippi Senate Bill SB2370

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/23/22

Caption

Ad valorem taxation; exempt property used for housing and providing services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Impact

The enactment of SB2370 will significantly affect local taxation laws regarding properties used for specific social services. By granting tax exemptions, the state intends to encourage the establishment of facilities that provide critical support to victims. This could lead to an increase in the number of shelters and support services available to individuals fleeing domestic violence or sexual assault. It represents a commitment by the state legislature to support victims of these crimes and acknowledges the vital role that nonprofit organizations play in their recovery and safety.

Summary

Senate Bill 2370 proposes an amendment to Section 27-31-1 of the Mississippi Code of 1972. This bill aims to exempt all property, whether real or personal, that is owned and managed by a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, specifically when such property is used solely for housing and providing services to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. The amendment is intended to provide tax relief for organizations dedicated to helping these vulnerable populations by making it more viable for them to operate without the burden of ad valorem taxation.

Contention

While SB2370 is anticipated to have positive outcomes, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and oversight of such tax exemptions. Some lawmakers may question whether this legislation could inadvertently lead to misuse or misallocation of resources by nonprofits. Moreover, a broader discussion may arise regarding the balance of tax exemptions for social causes against the fiscal responsibilities of the state to fund other public services. This could lead to debates about prioritizing funding for social services versus revenue generation through taxation.