Indiana Chamber highlights property tax reform prior to organization day
Nov 18, 2024
INDIANAPOLIS -- Prior to Organization Day on Tuesday, officials with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce are highlighting property tax reforms as a topic they would like lawmakers to focus on in the upcoming legislative session.
On Monday, the chamber unveiled the advocacy element of its research into property taxes, giving them the chance to "inform state lawmakers' decision-making on potential changes to Indiana's tax structure," according to a news release from the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
The research study examined the potential impact that changes to the state's local and state tax systems would have on revenue. The chamber also presented policymakers with "actionable data" to help support the state's economic growth.
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“Providing policymakers with data-driven insights is central to the Indiana Chamber’s mission of fostering a strong business environment,” Vanessa Green Sinders, president and CEO of the Indiana Chamber, said in the release. “This analysis examines potential scenarios to help legislators evaluate the impacts of different reforms before the legislative session. By taking this proactive, informed approach, we aim to ensure Indiana’s tax policies remain competitive and supportive of long-term growth.”
The release said the study includes recommendations to update the state's property tax system, evaluating potential reforms that aim to enhance the state's competitiveness, particularly for industries that are vital to the overall economy. This includes:
Exempting newly acquired equipment from taxation
Eliminating deprecation floors that require minimum taxable values for property
“Indiana’s competitive tax climate is the result of deliberate, forward-looking policies,” David Ober, the Indiana Chamber's senior vice president of business operations and finance. said in teh release. “However, our property tax system continues to create challenges for industries vital to our economy. These proposed reforms present an opportunity to reduce barriers for these sectors while maintaining our state’s reputation as a leader in business-friendly policies.”
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Officials see this as a "foundation for discussions between state and local leaders as they explore ways to modernize Indiana's tax system." The tax study was conducted by the Indiana Chamber Tax Research Advisory Committee, which included individuals from key business sectors, tax policy experts, consultants, economic development professionals and officials from relevant state agencies.
“These findings mark the next phase of an important dialogue,” Sinders continued. “We look forward to collaborating with policymakers, local governments and other stakeholders to craft reforms that position Indiana for long-term economic success.”
For more information about the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, click here.