Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1912

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Establishing a tax exemption for municipalities paying for gas

Impact

If enacted, S1912 would directly impact municipal budgets by providing much-needed savings on fuel expenses. Local governments in Massachusetts would benefit from reduced costs associated with gasoline purchases, potentially enabling them to redirect those funds towards other pressing needs within the community. This tax exemption could foster enhanced operational efficiency and sustainability within municipal services, particularly in departments such as public transportation, public safety, and maintenance operations.

Summary

Senate Bill S1912, presented by Senator Patrick M. O'Connor, aims to establish a tax exemption on fuel sales for municipalities consuming gas for municipal purposes in Massachusetts. The bill proposes the introduction of a new section to Chapter 64A of the General Laws, specifying that such sales to cities and towns would be exempt from the excise tax currently imposed. This legislation seeks to alleviate the financial burden on local governments, allowing them to allocate more funds towards essential public services and infrastructure improvements.

Contention

While the bill is designed with positive intentions, there may be potential points of contention in its implementation. Critics may raise concerns regarding the possible loss of revenue at the state level, especially if a significant number of municipalities take advantage of the exemption. Additionally, some may argue about the fairness of tax exemptions in general, questioning whether such measures disproportionately affect funding for state programs. Moreover, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of this exemption among different municipalities could also be a topic of debate.

Companion Bills

MA H2846

Similar To Relative to exempting municipalities from the gas tax

MA H4727

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA S2049

Establishing a tax exemption for municipalities paying for gas

MA H3143

Relative to exempting municipalities from the gas tax

MA S1908

Establishing a tax credit for individuals paying for home health care and hospice

MA S2053

Establishing a tax credit for individuals paying for home health care and hospice

MA H2846

Relative to exempting municipalities from the gas tax

MA S1907

Establishing a tax credit for families caring for relatives with aphasia

MA S2059

Establishing a tax credit for families caring for relatives with aphasia

MA S1903

Establishing a tax credit for child care

MA S1909

Establishing a tax credit for small businesses

MA S2052

Establishing a local option to exempt fishermen from property taxes

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.