SACRAMENTO – A bill to increase efficiency for taxpayers has found success in both the Senate and Assembly and is now awaiting signature on the Governor’s desk, according to an announcement by Senator Steve Knight (R-Antelope Valley).
Senate Bill 582 would require the Board of Equalization (BOE), Franchise Tax Board (FTB), and Employment Development Department (EDD) to develop a web-based portal that virtually consolidates the agencies to enable online, self-service access through a single logon for taxpayers. The bill also requires the agencies to consolidate forms, applications, and other documents. The goal is to streamline filing requirements for California taxpayers by providing a one-stop shop for taxpayers to visit for all of their tax services.
“The tax paying process in California can be daunting, intimidating, and confusing,” said Knight. “Streamlining the process will save time and increase voluntary compliance, and is in the best interest of all taxpayers.”
SB 582 is authored by Knight and sponsored by BOE Member and former Senator George Runner.
“It’s not easy doing business in California. One major challenge is that most business owners must pay taxes to three separate state tax agencies,” said Board of Equalization Member George Runner. “Our legislation takes an important and common sense first step toward streamlining this process, increasing voluntary compliance and enhancing the taxpayer experience.”
SB 582 received unanimous, bipartisan support through both the Senate and Assembly. Assemblymember Diane Harkey (R-Dana Point) served as a principal co-author.
(Information via press release from Senator Steve Knight. Knight represents the 21st Senate District in the California Legislature, which includes communities throughout the Antelope, Santa Clarita and Victor Valleys)
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