Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1964

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/17/24  
Refer
1/23/24  
Engrossed
1/29/24  
Refer
1/31/24  
Report Pass
2/5/24  
Enrolled
2/16/24  
Chaptered
2/21/24  

Caption

Enhancing prorate and fuel tax collections by improving taxpayer compliance, providing additional enforcement mechanisms, and protecting confidential taxpayer information.

Impact

If passed, HB 1964 would significantly impact state laws related to tax collections, particularly in terms of fuel and prorate taxes. The introduction of stringent compliance measures is intended to reduce tax evasion and enhance the state's ability to collect owed taxes. By providing additional enforcement tools, the bill not only aims to improve revenue but also to safeguard taxpayer information, ensuring privacy and confidentiality. This dual approach is seen as a way to foster trust between taxpayers and the state, while also improving overall compliance rates.

Summary

House Bill 1964 focuses on enhancing prorate and fuel tax collections through improved taxpayer compliance, additional enforcement mechanisms, and protection of confidential taxpayer information. The bill aims to streamline the collection process and ensure that tax obligations are met more effectively. By increasing compliance and enforcement capabilities, the bill seeks to boost state revenues that are critical for funding various public services and infrastructure projects. This legislation underscores the importance of accurate and timely tax collections in maintaining the financial health of the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1964 appears to be predominantly positive among proponents, who see the bill as a necessary step towards more efficient tax collection and enforcement. Supporters argue that by improving taxpayer compliance through clear regulations and protections, the state will benefit financially, enabling it to better serve its residents. However, there are concerns among some community members regarding how increased enforcement might affect taxpayers, particularly small businesses that may struggle with the added regulatory burden.

Contention

Despite the general support for the bill, notable points of contention exist, particularly regarding the balance between enforcement and support for taxpayers. Critics are wary of the potential implications of expanded enforcement powers, fearing that it could lead to unnecessary scrutiny and stress for taxpayers. Moreover, concerns have been raised about ensuring that enforcement does not disproportionately impact smaller or less resourced entities. The debate around HB 1964 thus reflects a broader discussion about the role of government in regulating tax compliance while facilitating a supportive environment for taxpayers.

Companion Bills

WA SB5847

Crossfiled Enhancing prorate and fuel tax collections by improving taxpayer compliance, providing additional enforcement mechanisms, and protecting confidential taxpayer information.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5847

Enhancing prorate and fuel tax collections by improving taxpayer compliance, providing additional enforcement mechanisms, and protecting confidential taxpayer information.

WA SB5565

Modifying tax and revenue laws by making technical corrections, clarifying ambiguities, easing compliance burdens for taxpayers, and providing administrative efficiencies.

WA SB5632

Protecting the confidentiality of records and information that may be relevant to another state's enforcement of its laws.

WA LB6

Prohibit conditional use permits and zoning exceptions for delinquent property taxpayers

WA HB1997

Cutting statewide property tax revenues by 10 percent without creating a shift to other taxpayers.

WA HB9594

Protecting Taxpayers’ Wallets Act

WA HB1163

Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act

WA SB1587

Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act

WA HB1876

Concerning confidential fisheries information collected by other states and maintaining that confidentiality under the public records act.

WA SB5511

Enhancing and improving the equity of K-12 education funding.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.