Oklahoma Senate Bill SB757

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/18/21
• Engrossed: 3/15/21
• Refer: 3/22/21
• Report Pass: 4/14/22
• Enrolled: 5/19/22
• Passed: 5/25/22

Caption

Alcoholic beverages; monthly tax reports; removing allowable percentages for amounts collected to be in compliance for purposes of an audit. Effective date.

Impact

With the passing of SB757, the reporting and compliance framework for mixed beverage tax holders is more stringent. Permit holders must now adhere to exact reporting guidelines without the cushion of percentage compliance ranges. This change can be expected to increase the accuracy of tax reporting while also potentially leading to increased penalties for non-compliance, as the Tax Commission will now have wider authority to audit and enforce these changes more rigorously. The implementation of this bill signals a more proactive approach by the state to ensure proper tax collection and reduced tax evasion.

Summary

Senate Bill 757 (SB757) amends the existing regulations surrounding the taxation and reporting of mixed beverages in Oklahoma. The bill focuses on the requirements for mixed beverage tax permit holders to submit monthly reports to the Oklahoma Tax Commission. It outlines the necessary information that must be included in these reports, such as the total gross receipts from the sale of mixed beverages and the nature of any complimentary alcoholic beverages provided. One significant change introduced by SB757 is the removal of the allowable percentage ranges that previously indicated compliance during audits, significantly altering the standard for reporting accuracy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB757 appears to be largely favorable among supporters who view the bill as a necessary step towards enhancing fiscal responsibility and accountability among businesses that serve alcohol. Proponents argue that the updated reporting requirements will lead to a more equitable tax collection process. However, some permit holders expressed concerns about the increased burden of compliance and potential penalties, suggesting that the elimination of the percentage compliance ranges may inadvertently lead to harsher treatment of businesses that may have previously been in compliance under the old rules.

Contention

The main points of contention arose from discussions regarding the administrative burden placed on small businesses and tax permit holders. Critics of SB757 argued that the stricter compliance measures could disproportionately impact smaller establishments, which may lack the resources to manage complex reporting requirements. Additionally, concerns were voiced regarding the potential for increased penalties resulting from non-compliance due to the stringent new standards. The debate indicated a division between fiscal accountability advocates and those supporting the interests of small business owners and operators in the hospitality industry.