Bill
SR 309
SR 309 mandates a two-thirds vote for any new sales or income tax credits in Georgia, promoting fairness and limiting special interest influence on tax legislation.
Bill Number: SR 309
Title: Sales or Income Tax Credit; any bill proposing to receive a two-thirds' vote of the membership of each house of the General Assembly in order to become law; require -CA
Status: Senate Read Second Time
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Senate Resolution 309 proposes an amendment to the Georgia Constitution that would require any bill proposing a sales or income tax credit or exemption to receive a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the General Assembly to become law. This measure aims to ensure that special interest tax credits are scrutinized more rigorously, promoting fairness and equality among taxpayers.
Two-Thirds Vote Requirement:
Starting January 1, 2027, any bill that proposes a sales or income tax credit or exemption must obtain a two-thirds majority vote from the elected members of both the Senate and House of Representatives.
Exception Clause:
The requirement does not apply to the renewal of existing sales or income tax credits as of January 1, 2027, provided that the renewal does not increase the amount of the credit.
Submission for Ratification:
The proposed amendment will be submitted to voters for ratification or rejection, with a ballot that includes options to vote "YES" or "NO" on the amendment.
The resolution includes findings that highlight the following:
1. Surrounding states have eliminated state income tax.
2. Georgia's state income tax constitutes nearly 50% of its annual revenue.
3. There are ongoing efforts to reduce state income tax rates, with potential proposals to eliminate it entirely.
4. The resolution advocates for a transition to a consumption-based tax model, suggesting that eliminating special interest tax credits would treat all Georgians equally.
Affected Parties:
This amendment would primarily impact legislators and special interest groups that benefit from sales or income tax credits. It aims to create a more equitable tax environment for all citizens by limiting the ability of the General Assembly to pass tax credits without significant consensus.
Procedural Aspects:
The resolution has undergone several legislative actions:
SR 309 seeks to amend the Georgia Constitution to impose stricter voting requirements on tax credits and exemptions, reflecting a shift towards a more equitable tax system. If ratified, this amendment could significantly alter how tax legislation is approached in Georgia, ensuring that such measures receive broader support before becoming law.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
Sign in to ask a question.
