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House approves changes to nonresidential property‑tax appeals and penalties
Summary
HB 12‑33 was adopted after floor amendments that narrow petty‑offense liability to the individual who submitted false information and clarified timelines for the Board of Assessment Appeals; proponents said the bill closes accountability gaps, while opponents warned it could burden businesses.
Representative Lukens presented House Bill 12‑33 and the finance committee report, saying the bill clarifies procedures for nonresidential property‑tax appeals and adds penalties for willfully providing false information. An amendment (L004) was adopted that limits petty‑offense liability to the person who submits false information and clarifies an appeals timeline for the Board of Assessment Appeals. Amendment L006 (which would have required clearer notices to property owners when counties request cases move to district court) was offered and lost.
On the floor Representative Zokay (Speaker 21) supported the bill, saying it provides tools for counties to hold bad actors accountable and clarifies when the BAA should consider changed or conflicting information. Representative Wouk (Speaker 22) opposed the measure, calling it costly and arguing it risks driving businesses from the state; he urged a no vote. After debate and the amendment votes, the committee report as amended was adopted and House Bill 12‑33 passed second reading.
Sponsor and floor discussion focused on balancing accountability for willful misstatements and protections for unrepresented property owners. The transcript records the committee report and amendments adopted and the bill advanced to third reading.
