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H 3059

An Act promoting estate tax fairness

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Connolly and 1 co-sponsor

Bill H 3059 reforms Massachusetts estate tax, exempting estates under $2M and imposing a progressive tax up to 30% on larger estates, ensuring fairer contributions.

Hearing rescheduled to 11/18/2025 from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM in B-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 3059

Summary of Bill H 3059: An Act Promoting Estate Tax Fairness

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 3059 aims to reform the estate tax system in Massachusetts to promote fairness in the taxation of estates. The bill seeks to adjust the tax rates and thresholds for estate transfers, particularly benefiting smaller estates and ensuring that higher-value estates contribute a fairer share to state revenue.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant changes to the existing estate tax framework:

  1. Repeal of Chapter 65A: The bill proposes the repeal of Chapter 65A of the General Laws, which currently governs certain aspects of estate taxation.

  2. Amendment of Chapter 65C:

    • New Tax Structure: The bill introduces a new excise tax on the transfer of estates for individuals who die on or after January 1, 1997, with a detailed rate schedule based on the federal gross estate value:
      • No tax for estates valued at or below $2,000,000.
      • A progressive tax rate starting at 10% for estates valued between $2,000,000 and $2,500,000, increasing to 30% for estates over $10,000,000.
    • Tax on Non-Residents: An excise tax will also apply to the transfer of real property and tangible personal property located in Massachusetts for individuals who were not residents at the time of death, using the same rate schedule.
    • Exemption for Smaller Estates: Estates of decedents who die on or after July 1, 2023, will not owe any excise tax if their federal gross estate is valued at $2,000,000 or less.

  3. Effective Date: The provisions of this act will take effect for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

Affected Parties

  • Residents of Massachusetts: The bill primarily impacts Massachusetts residents who pass away with estates valued over $2,000,000.
  • Non-Residents: Non-residents with property in Massachusetts will also be subject to the new tax provisions.
  • Estate Executors and Beneficiaries: Executors managing estates and beneficiaries receiving inheritances will need to navigate the new tax structure.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has been referred to the committee on Revenue.
  • A hearing was initially scheduled for November 7, 2025, but has since been rescheduled to November 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Conclusion

Bill H 3059 represents a significant shift in Massachusetts estate tax policy, aiming to create a more equitable tax system that alleviates the burden on smaller estates while ensuring that larger estates contribute appropriately to state revenues. The proposed changes will be closely monitored as they progress through the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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