Pennsylvania House Bill HB853

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/25
• Refer: 3/10/25
• Refer: 6/2/25
• Report Pass: 6/3/25
• Engrossed: 6/3/25
• Refer: 6/9/25

Caption

Further providing for notices of taxes; providing for removal of deceased spouse; further providing for installment payment of taxes; and providing for imposition of fees for collection of delinquent per capita, poll and occupation taxes.

Impact

The passage of HB 853 is expected to clarify the legal obligations surrounding tax notices and collections. Changes related to the removal of deceased spouses from tax liabilities aim to alleviate undue burdens on surviving family members during difficult times. Furthermore, provisions allowing for installment payments could offer taxpayers greater flexibility in managing their financial obligations, potentially reducing stress and financial strain on individuals.

Summary

House Bill 853 focuses on enhancing provisions concerning tax notices, removing deceased spouses from tax responsibilities, providing regulations regarding installment payments of taxes, and creating frameworks for imposing fees associated with the collection of delinquent per capita, poll, and occupation taxes. The bill aims to streamline tax processes and clarify the responsibilities of taxpayers and local authorities regarding tax collection efforts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears generally positive, as stakeholders seem to appreciate the bill's potential to enhance taxpayer rights and simplify tax procedures. Legislators have highlighted the importance of simplifying tax codes to ensure taxpayers are treated fairly, particularly in the context of removing deceased spouses from obligations. However, some concerns were voiced regarding the potential for increased fees in collecting delinquent taxes, as stakeholders stress the need for equitable treatment of all taxpayers.

Contention

While there is broad support for the intent of HB 853, there are points of contention regarding the implementation of the proposed fee structures for delinquent taxes. Critics warn that imposing fees could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who may already be struggling with tax burdens. This concern highlights the ongoing debate between efficient tax collection practices and the equitable treatment of economically vulnerable populations.