Committee hears governor-backed $1.17 billion state income tax refund plan

An author presenting House Bill 1000 (LC590225) told the committee the governor’s plan would provide a one-time state income tax refund worth about $1,170,000,000 and that the funds would be included in the amended budget. The presenter said the benefits were structured as $250 for individual filers, $375 for heads of household and $500 for married couples filing jointly.

Why it matters: The presenter framed the refund as part of continued tax-relief actions following prior years’ returns to taxpayers. He told the committee the legislature and governor have returned substantial funds in recent years, citing about $7.3 billion in surplus revenues returned to taxpayers in the last four years and a cumulative commitment of roughly $9.4 billion in tax relief in recent sessions.

What was said: Speaker 4 said, “The value of this tax refund is approximately $1,170,000,000.” When members asked about budget treatment, the presenter confirmed the funds would be included in the amended budget and answered follow-up questions about past returns.

Outcome: After brief questioning, the chair called the question and the motion on the item was signified by voice; the committee advanced the measure in committee form.

Next steps: The sponsor said staff were available to answer further technical questions as the bill moves forward in the chamber.