Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1071

Introduced

1/17/22

Refer

1/17/22

Failed

2/1/22

Caption

Motor fuel taxes; bring forward certain sections.

Impact

The proposed amendments within HB 1071 are intended to streamline the tax structure concerning gasoline and special fuel in Mississippi, thus providing a more uniform taxation process for fuel distributors. Furthermore, the revenue generated from these excise taxes is vital for funding state transportation projects and infrastructure, highlighting the importance of these taxes for road maintenance and improvement initiatives. The bill could potentially affect the financial operations of fuel distributors as well as local and state tax revenues that are dependent on these excise taxes.

Summary

House Bill 1071 aims to bring forward various sections of the Mississippi Code related to the gasoline excise tax and special fuel tax for potential amendments. This bill lays out specific guidelines and rates for tax collection on gasoline and special fuels sold in the state. It particularly emphasizes excise taxes that distributors must pay, determined as eighteen cents per gallon until a designated date, after which rates may change. The bill's provisions also clarify the proper collection processes and the duties of distributors when it comes to tax liabilities on fuel transactions.

Contention

Notably, there could be points of contention surrounding the impact of these excise taxes on economic activity. Opponents may argue that increased taxes on fuel could raise transportation costs for consumers and businesses, while proponents will likely highlight the long-term benefits of improved infrastructure funded by these taxes. The balancing act of generating necessary tax revenue while maintaining fair pricing for fuel in the market is a critical aspect that stakeholders may discuss as the bill moves through the legislative process.