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Bill

Bill

A 295

Provides that state departments, offices, agencies, and authorities are prohibited from imposing any fees, surcharges, or taxes that have not been approved

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ken Blankenbush and 12 co-sponsors

Bill A 295 protects taxpayers by requiring state agencies to get legislative approval before imposing any new fees, surcharges, or taxes, ensuring fiscal transparency.

HELD FOR CONSIDERATION IN GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 295

Summary of Bill A 295

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 295
  • Title: Prohibits state departments, offices, agencies, and authorities from imposing unapproved fees, surcharges, or taxes
  • Status: Held for consideration in Governmental Operations
  • Introduced: January 8, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 295 aims to enhance fiscal accountability and transparency within state government operations. The primary intent of the bill is to prevent state departments, offices, agencies, and authorities from imposing any fees, surcharges, or taxes without prior approval from the appropriate legislative body. This measure seeks to protect taxpayers from unexpected financial burdens and ensure that any new fees or taxes are subject to legislative scrutiny.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition of Unapproved Fees: The bill explicitly prohibits state entities from imposing any fees, surcharges, or taxes unless they have received explicit approval from the legislature.
  • Legislative Oversight: By requiring legislative approval, the bill aims to increase oversight and accountability regarding the financial practices of state agencies.

Impact

  • Affected Entities: The bill will directly impact all state departments, offices, agencies, and authorities that currently have the authority to impose fees, surcharges, or taxes.
  • Taxpayers: Citizens and businesses in the state will benefit from increased protection against unapproved financial charges, fostering a more transparent government financial process.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • January 8, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the Governmental Operations Committee.
    • May 27, 2025: The bill was held for consideration in the same committee, indicating that further discussion or amendments may be needed before it can proceed.

Related Bills

Bill A 295 is related to several prior-session bills that may address similar issues of fiscal responsibility and government accountability:
- A 6208
- A 5206
- A 4721
- A 6131
- A 5637

This summary provides an overview of Bill A 295, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on state governance and taxpayers. The bill is currently under consideration and may undergo further evaluation and amendments in the legislative process.

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

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