Committee narrows but advances bill requiring earlier tax-notification to public

Representative Peterson introduced HB365 to require cities, counties and school districts to notify the public earlier in the budget cycle when they intend to pursue a tax increase. The sponsor said an earlier notice helps engage the public during budget formation rather than only at the truth-in-taxation hearing.

School district and municipal witnesses said an April 1 notice is operationally challenging because assessed valuations and legislative revenue decisions are not known that early. Granite School District's business administrator said some numbers are not knowable by April (assessed valuations arrive in May), which could force local governments to guess and lock in a rate prematurely. Municipal officials asked for flexibility and a later notice date; stakeholders suggested May 1 as a more workable alternative.

The committee adopted a first amendment (as moved on the floor) clarifying notice timing. Members debated and briefly considered a motion to hold but ultimately proceeded to pass the bill (as amended) out of committee with a favorable recommendation in a roll-call vote of 10-1.

Next steps: HB365 advances to the House with an amended notice requirement; staff and sponsor said they will keep working with stakeholders to clarify dates and mechanics before floor debate.