Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2656

Introduced

2/15/24

Refer

2/15/24

Refer

2/20/24

Caption

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Revenue to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to programs, property taxes and other revenue matters.

Impact

If enacted, S2656 could lead to significant revisions in the approach to property taxation in Massachusetts, particularly concerning the methodologies used in tax assessments and exemptions available for different demographics, including seniors. The study could reveal gaps in existing regulations and spur changes aimed at improving fairness and equity in the local tax system. It has the potential to influence budgetary allocations and funding for local services that rely on property tax revenues.

Summary

Bill S2656 is an order from the Massachusetts Senate directing the committee on Revenue to investigate and study various Senate documents related to property taxes and other revenue matters. This bill serves as a comprehensive approach to analyze current tax programs including a bifurcated property tax system, exemptions for small commercial entities, and tax relief for senior citizens, among other fiscal regulations. It aims to facilitate informed recommendations to potentially amend state tax laws based on the outcomes of the investigation.

Contention

As discussions surrounding S2656 unfold, notable points of contention are expected, particularly between proponents advocating for more robust tax relief measures for specific groups, such as seniors and small businesses, versus those who raise concerns about the impacts on overall state revenue generation. Critics may argue that increased exemptions could strain public services that depend on property tax funding. The thorough study mandated by this bill will likely reveal differing perspectives on the balance between providing tax relief and maintaining adequate funding for essential services.

Companion Bills

MA S1829

Replaces To ensure timely restitution payments to victims of crime

MA S1854

Replaces Providing property tax relief for older adults

MA S1885

Replaces Improving the tax administrative laws of the Commonwealth

MA S1902

Replaces Relative to adopting the new market tax credits program for Massachusetts

MA S1901

Replaces Reducing senior citizen property taxes

MA S1853

Replaces Resolve providing for an investigation and study by a special commission relative to a senior state property tax deferral program

MA S1915

Replaces Relative to taxes and fee transparency

MA S1873

Replaces To establish a lifelong learning and training program

MA S1928

Replaces Creating the Preservation of Historic Buildings Trust Fund

MA S1785

Replaces Relative to a bifurcated property tax

MA S1927

Replaces Relative to home modifications for seniors

MA S1824

Replaces Relative to state reporting obligations of health plan coverage

MA S1807

Replaces Relative to the small commercial tax exemption

MA S1841

Replaces Establishing a senior property tax deferral pilot program

MA S1875

Replaces To require public disclosures by publicly-traded corporate taxpayers

Previously Filed As

MA S2612

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on the Judiciary to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to judicial matters.

MA S2648

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Health to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to public health matters.

MA S2930

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Revenue to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to veterans exemptions and real estate transfer fees.

MA S2610

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Service to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to public service matters.

MA S2931

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Service to make an investigation and study of a certain current Senate document relative to public service matters.

MA S2647

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Municipalities and Regional Government to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to certain general and special municipal legislation.

MA S2753

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on the Judiciary to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to judicial matters.

MA S2614

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Education to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to education matters.

MA S2624

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Elder Affairs to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to elder care matters.

MA S2649

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Environment and Natural Resources to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to environment and natural resources matters.