JEFFERSON CITY — Yesterday, April 27, the governor signed into law House Bill 384, handled by Senator Bob Dixon, R-Springfield, in the upper chamber and containing provisions originally introduced by Sen. Dixon and Sen. Paul LeVota, D-Independence, in Senate Bill 15. Among the additions to the bill was a bipartisan proposal to establish a Study Commission on State Tax Policy and direct it to conduct the first comprehensive review of Missouri’s tax code in decades. Other provisions provide additional safeguards for taxpayers.
“In order to strengthen economic growth, encourage investment and boost job creation, we must craft a clear, consistent tax code to replace our current antique, ramshackle code,” stated Sen. Dixon. “Tax policy deeply affects the lives and livelihoods of individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and small business owners across Missouri. They need a direct voice in the process, and this approach ensures that individuals outside the Capitol halls have a seat at the table, developing recommendations to serve as the foundation for tax reform legislation.”
As part of a multi-year, in-depth review, the Study Commission will examine Missouri’s tax system, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and provide recommendations to the governor and General Assembly on improvements to the tax code. In addition to creating the Tax Study Commission, the Senate Substitute for House Bill 384 also:
- Establishes an independent Office of Taxpayer Advocate, which will assist and defend taxpayers, which will replace the current Office of Taxpayers’ Ombudsman within the Department of Revenue;
- Amends state laws to make clear the right of Missourians to the consistent application of state tax laws, rather than arbitrary or inconsistent action by the Department of Revenue; and
- Provides eligible taxpayers a one-time opportunity, during a 90 day window, from Sept. 1, 2015, and Nov. 30, 2015, to pay delinquent taxes without having to pay any additional interest, penalties or fees.
For more information on Senate Bill 15, House Bill 384, or other legislative work done by Sen. Dixon, visit his website at www.senate.mo.gov/dixon. |
