Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4981

Introduced
8/5/24  

Caption

Relative to interest fees

Impact

By allowing tax collectors to waive a portion of the tax liability, H4981 could significantly impact local revenue collections and the financial health of municipalities. This measure could lead to decreased revenue in the short term as households benefit from reduced fees, but it could also encourage timely payments from those who might otherwise default. In the broader context, such allowances could foster an environment of collaboration between municipalities and taxpayers, leading to more equitable treatment of tax obligations.

Summary

House Bill 4981 aims to amend Section 15 of Chapter 60 of the Massachusetts General Laws to grant tax collectors the authority to waive interest, charges, and fees associated with tax liability up to a maximum of 50%. This change is designed to provide tax collectors with increased discretion in managing tax payments, particularly in situations where taxpayers may be struggling to meet their obligations. The proposal is positioned as a means of promoting fairness and flexibility within the municipal tax system, especially during economic hardships.

Contention

While the bill seeks to ease financial burdens on taxpayers, it may also face scrutiny regarding the potential for uneven implementation across different municipalities. Critics might argue that such discretion in waiving fees could lead to inconsistencies and allegations of unfair treatment, especially if collectors apply varying standards. Moreover, concerns may arise about the broader fiscal impact on municipalities, especially those that are already facing budget constraints or relying heavily on tax collections to fund essential services.

Companion Bills

MA H2883

Similar To Relative to the improvement in the process for collecting delinquent municipal property taxes

MA H2843

Similar To Requiring a waiting period for new taxes

MA H2911

Replaces Relative to interest fees

Previously Filed As

MA H2911

Relative to interest fees

MA H2278

Relative to late fees and accrued interest on parking tickets

MA H2845

Relative to DOR interest rate parity

MA H2947

Regarding late payments and interest rates for real estate bills and personal property taxes

MA H3144

Relative to DOR interest rate parity

MA H2991

Relative to access to statements of financial interest

MA H3294

Relative to access to statements of financial interest

MA H3266

Relative to municipal tax collectors

MA H2971

Relative to municipal tax collectors

MA H2878

Protecting the interests of housing cooperative shareholders

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.