Summary of Bill S 2653

Bill Information

• Bill Number: S 2653
• Title: Requires the state to pay taxes on the assessed value of properties of closed state prisons
• Status: Referred to Local Government
• Introduced: January 22, 2025
• Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 2653 aims to establish a requirement for the state to pay property taxes on the assessed value of properties that were previously used as state prisons but are now closed. The intent behind this legislation is to ensure that these properties contribute to local tax revenues, which can support community services and infrastructure.

Key Provisions

• Tax Payment Requirement: The bill mandates that the state must pay property taxes on closed state prison properties.
• Assessment Value: The taxes will be based on the assessed value of these properties, which will be determined by local tax assessors.

Impact

• Local Governments: This bill is expected to provide a new source of revenue for local governments that may have been financially impacted by the closure of state prisons. By requiring the state to pay taxes, local jurisdictions can benefit from additional funding for public services.
• Closed State Prisons: Properties that were once operational as state prisons will now be subject to taxation, potentially changing their financial status and encouraging better management or redevelopment of these sites.

Procedural Aspects

• Legislative Action: The bill was introduced on January 22, 2025, and has been referred to the Local Government committee for further consideration.
• Related Legislation: This bill is related to prior-session Bill S 2745 and has a companion bill, A 3252, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the proposed changes.

Conclusion

Bill S 2653 represents a significant shift in how closed state prison properties are treated in terms of taxation. By requiring the state to pay property taxes, the bill aims to enhance local government revenues and support community needs following the closure of these facilities. The bill is currently under review by the Local Government committee, and its progress will be closely monitored by stakeholders in affected communities.