Property tax: tax tribunal; provisions of the tax tribunal act relating to the disclosure of certain evidence and the conduct of certain hearings; modify. Amends sec. 46 of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.746).
Impact
The proposed changes align tribunal procedures with contemporary practices regarding evidence handling. By formally recognizing and ensuring the confidentiality of sensitive information, the bill may positively impact the operational dynamics of the tribunal, allowing businesses and individuals to engage more freely without the fear of sensitive information being publicly disclosed. However, it will also necessitate strict adherence to procedures for determining what constitutes confidential information, potentially adding layers of complexity to tribunal proceedings.
Summary
House Bill 5645 seeks to amend the Tax Tribunal Act (1973 PA 186) by modifying Section 46, which governs the submission and reporting of evidence in tribunal proceedings. The bill aims to enhance the balance between transparency and the protection of confidential information during hearings. It grants the tribunal the authority to issue protective orders that will keep certain sensitive information confidential, thereby preventing its disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. This is particularly relevant for data that could compromise security, privacy, or create competitive disadvantages for the parties involved.
Contention
Notably, HB5645 introduces points of contention regarding the balance between public access to governmental processes and necessary confidentiality protections. Advocates of transparency may argue that the new provisions could inhibit public scrutiny and accountability of the tribunal's functions. Conversely, supporters of the bill believe that it is crucial for protecting sensitive information that, if disclosed, could lead to unfair consequences for parties involved in tribunal hearings. This debate reflects broader discussions about transparency vs. privacy in government proceedings.
Voting_history
The bill has garnered unanimous support in its voting history, with 11 votes in favor and zero against, indicating a strong bipartisan consensus on its necessity and appropriateness in addressing confidentiality concerns within tax tribunal matters. It highlights a growing recognition of the need for legal frameworks to adapt to modern challenges in information management.
Property tax: tax tribunal; methods for tax tribunal to hold hearings; expand to include electronically. Amends secs. 26 & 34 of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.726 & 205.734). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4563'23
Property tax: tax tribunal; methods for tax tribunal to hold hearings; expand to include electronically. Amends secs. 26 & 34 of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.726 & 205.734). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4099'25
Property tax: tax tribunal; certain tribunal determinations in assessment disputes as to the valuation of property; require. Amends sec. 37 of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.737).
Property tax: tax tribunal; certain tribunal determinations in assessment disputes as to the valuation of property; require. Amends 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.701 - 205.779) by adding sec. 38.
Property tax: appeals; process for appealing certain assessment-related disputes as to certain property; amend. Amends sec. 34 of 1893 PA 206 (MCL 211.34) & adds secs. 34f & 34g.
Property tax: tax tribunal; methods for tax tribunal to hold small claims hearings; expand to include telephonically or by videoconferencing. Amends sec. 62 of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.762).
Property tax: tax tribunal; electronic hearings of the tax tribunal; provide for. Amends sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4564'23
Property tax: tax tribunal; tax tribunal jurisdiction over certain disputes related to the assessment of property for purposes of property taxes; amend. Amends secs. 31 & 35a of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.731 & 205.735a).
Property tax: tax tribunal; certain tribunal determinations in assessment disputes as to the valuation of property; require. Amends sec. 3 of 1973 PA 186 (MCL 205.703).
Crime victims: other; address confidentiality program for certain victims and individuals; modify. Amends sec. 5 of 2020 PA 301 (MCL 780.855). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0263'23
Civil rights: public records; identity of parties proceeding anonymously in civil actions alleging sexual misconduct; exempt from disclosure under freedom of information act. Amends sec. 13 of 1976 PA 442 (MCL 15.243).
Civil rights: public records; certain law enforcement disciplinary personnel records; require to be subject to freedom of information act requests. Amends sec. 13 of 1976 PA 442 (MCL 15.243).
Civil rights: public records; certain records of local offices of inspector generals; exempt from disclosure under freedom of information act. Amends sec. 13 of 1976 PA 442 (MCL 15.243).