Tennessee House Bill HB2074

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 4/11/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Engrossed: 4/22/24
• Enrolled: 4/24/24
• Passed: 5/21/24
• Chaptered: 5/28/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, relative to taxation.

Impact

The introduction of this bill stands to have a significant impact on state tax laws, as it creates a specific protocol for tax refunds linked to natural disasters, effectively expanding options for disaster recovery efforts at the state level. By streamlining the refund process and reducing the paperwork burden typically associated with such claims, the bill facilitates quicker recovery for homeowners suffering losses due to tornado damage. Furthermore, by allowing claims to be filed without proof of federal assistance, it alleviates some criteria that could pose barriers to timely aid after such incidents.

Summary

House Bill 2074 aims to provide tax relief to individuals whose primary residences have been damaged or destroyed due to natural disasters, specifically focusing on tornado incidents that occurred between April 1 and April 3, 2024. The bill seeks to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67 by introducing new provisions for tax refund claims, thereby establishing a framework that allows affected homeowners to receive financial assistance without the need for proof of federal disaster assistance. This legislative move is particularly geared toward counties with populations between 21,000 and 21,100, emphasizing its targeted approach in response to local needs following a disaster.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2074 appears to be generally supportive, especially among legislators who prioritize local disaster recovery efforts. Stakeholders recognize the importance of providing swift financial relief to homeowners in affected areas, acknowledging that expedited assistance can potentially mitigate the overall economic impact of the disaster on communities. Opposition may arise from concerns regarding the financial implications of tax refunds and whether sufficient state funds are available to meet these new obligations; however, the prevailing narrative remains one of assistance and recovery.

Contention

While HB 2074 is primarily framed as a beneficial support measure for disaster-affected homeowners, potential points of contention could include the specifics of implementation, such as ensuring adequate funding for the anticipated refund claims. Additionally, debates may surface regarding eligibility criteria and how the bill delineates between state and federal disaster responses, particularly considering that the disaster need not be federally declared. These factors could influence future discussions regarding fiscal responsibilities and the adequacy of support for residents in disaster-prone regions.