Hutchinson’s Improvement of State Tax Appeals Process to Become Law

HARRISBURG - Following today's approval by the Pennsylvania Senate, legislation that would improve the Pennsylvania Board of Finance and Revenue (BF&R) tax appeals process will be signed into law, said bill sponsor Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-21).

"Under current law, BF&R does not possess the statutory authority to direct and oversee a formal settlement process when appropriate," explained Hutchinson. "Senate Bill 1051 modifies the appeals process to encourage settlements, meaning more appeals will be resolved without a final board decision or need to go to Commonwealth Court.

"Giving the board authority to direct a mediation process which will reduce litigation costs for the taxpayer and allow the Commonwealth to resolve tax issues sooner, collect tax liabilities quicker and direct valuable resources towards more complex cases, all positively benefitting Pennsylvania."

"This will make tax appeals much more fair for Pennsylvania families and businesses," Treasurer Stacy Garrity said. "These reforms will remove bureaucratic obstacles and implement a process to streamline the appeal process. Huge thanks to Sen. Hutchinson for working to create an even playing field for Pennsylvania taxpayers."

The Pennsylvania Treasury Department estimates as many as 500 appeals - of individuals and businesses - could benefit from the improved mediated appeals process.

"Thanks to the support of state Treasurer Garrity and others, this legislation will create a more level playing field for taxpayers across the commonwealth when dealing with the Department of Revenue," said Hutchinson.

View Sen. Hutchinson's Senate floor remarks about the bill here.

CONTACTS: Justin Leventry