AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, relative to taxation.
Impact
The impact of HB1857 on state laws is largely centered around the accessibility of public records and governmental operations related to taxation. By mandating that tax information be posted online, it is expected to streamline the process for citizens interested in accessing this data. This change may also reduce the potential bureaucratic delays in obtaining such information, fostering a better-informed public regarding tax obligations and governmental revenue.
Summary
House Bill 1857 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly focusing on taxation regulations. The bill proposes a modification to Section 67-4-1509, replacing the requirement for tax information to 'make the information accessible to the public' with a mandate that the information be 'posted on the department's website'. This change is intended to enhance the availability of tax-related information to the public by ensuring it is easily accessible online, which aligns with modern practices of governmental transparency and efficient data dissemination.
Contention
While the bill is presented as a step towards greater transparency, there could be points of contention related to data privacy and the extent of information made publicly accessible. Legislators concerned about the sensitivity of certain tax information might argue that posting too much data online could infringe on taxpayer privacy rights. Furthermore, the change in wording itself suggests a shift in how governmental responsibilities regarding public information are perceived, potentially leading to debates on the adequacy of online resources and the technology supporting them.