Ways and Means Committee advances several tax measures, defers others after extended hearing

The House Ways and Means Committee spent most of its session on tax proposals and votes. After hearing and debate the committee:

• Voluntarily deferred HB 620 (constitutional amendment to allow centralized sales‑tax collection) and its companion HB 658 at the author's request, citing the need for more stakeholder work and collection data.

• Reported HB 217 (local‑option property‑tax exemption for rehabilitated blighted properties) and HB 214 (constitutional companion) favorably after discussion of transferability and safeguards.

• Reported HB 514 (additional ad valorem exemptions for homeowners aged 65+) and HB 561 (trust eligibility clarifications) favorably.

• Reported HB 812 (optional assessor compensation equalization) favorably; sponsors and assessors emphasized the proposal uses local funds and requires public notice.

• Voluntarily deferred HB 898 (income‑tax reduction/elimination blueprint, the "Light Act") and HB 614 (sales‑tax rebate for disaster‑related lodging and meals) for further consideration and rule drafting.

Committee members repeatedly asked for empirical collection data related to the hybrid e‑file rollout and suggested model ordinance work for local governments on the blight exemption. Where motions were made, the committee accepted reports or deferrals by unanimous consent ("seeing no objection").

Votes at a glance:
HB 217 (blight exemption) — moved forward favorably (as amended)
HB 214 (constitutional companion) — moved forward favorably
HB 514 (senior ad valorem exemption) — moved forward favorably
HB 561 (trust eligibility) — moved forward favorably
HB 812 (assessor compensation) — reported favorably
HB 620 (sales‑tax centralization) — voluntarily deferred (author request)
HB 658 (companion to HB 620) — voluntarily deferred
HB 898 (income tax reduction/elimination) — voluntarily deferred
HB 614 (disaster lodging/meals rebate) — voluntarily deferred

What’s next: Sponsors said they will continue stakeholder meetings, prepare model local ordinances and return with data or amended language; the committee adjourned after completing the agenda.