Rhode Island Senate Bill S0536

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23

Caption

State Tax Officials

Impact

If enacted, Bill S0536 would significantly alter the existing framework governing the assessment of interest on delinquent tax payments. Currently, taxpayers may find themselves liable for interest accrued over a longer period, but this bill seeks to reduce that burden by capping it at four years. Furthermore, it also addresses the interest rates applied, allowing the tax administrator to compute the rate annually based on the prime rate, while ensuring it does not exceed 21% or drop below 12% for the relevant fiscal year.

Summary

Bill S0536 aims to amend current Rhode Island tax legislation related to the practices of state tax officials, specifically addressing the interest applied to delinquent tax payments. The bill introduces a limitation on the assessment of interest for any unpaid state tax to a maximum of four calendar years preceding the date when a delinquent payment notice is sent to the taxpayer. This change is designed to provide taxpayers with a clearer understanding of their financial obligations and to streamline the tax collection process.

Contention

Debate surrounding Bill S0536 may revolve around concerns of fairness and the overall impact on state revenue. Proponents argue that limiting interest assessments is an essential step in providing relief to taxpayers who fall behind in their payments, especially during economically challenging times. However, opponents may argue that capping interest could reduce the incentive for timely payment or diminish the revenue the state collects from delinquent taxes, complicating budgeting and fiscal management at the state level.