Rep. Keith Heard is co-sponsoring a bill that would allow delinquent taxpayers to settle up debts owed between 1991 and 2009 without penalties or interest within a 10-month window. Amnesty would not apply to taxpayers who have been accused of tax fraud.
Heard said Monday that such an amnesty hasn't been offered in Georgia in two decades, and that the time is ripe to revive the program. In 1992, when the state last gave amnesty to tardy taxpayers, Georgia netted more than $51 million.
Hears said similar programs have netted nearly $1 billion in states including New Jersey, Massachusetts, Arizona, Connecticut and Hawaii.
Democratic leaders in the Georgia legislature rolled out their legislative agenda Monday.
In addition to the tax amnesty proposal, they will also push for the election of state Public Service Commission members by district instead of statewide, saying it would make their more accountable.
Their legislative package begins this week with Economic Security, highlighting a weak economy and offering alternatives to Republican legislation that favors big corporations over Georgia families.
"From Washington, D.C. to Atlanta, Georgia, there is a clear need to actually meet the needs and concerns of citizens. We believe our legislative packet puts substance in the place of rhetoric," said House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams. "We don't believe in Gimmick Government or empty promises. The House Democratic Caucus stands ready to offer meaningful legislation meant to truly help Georgia's families."
Some 20 Democratic lawmakers gathered in the Senate Press Offices of the Paul Coverdell Legislative Office Building Monday, including the authors of the proposed legislation flanked by Democratic leaders.
"Democrats, Tea Party activists and Republicans, alike have all called for a process of reform," said Rep. Elena Parent (D-81-Chamblee). "I am excited to make good on campaign promises to lead the charge on this reform."
Democrats say they are offering policies to help make government open and accessible to every Georgian, with hopes to earn voters' attention by being proactive, responsive and visible.
"Taxpayers have repeatedly told us they are tired of backroom deals, especially those that involve their hard-earned tax dollars. Earmarks and the PSC and have become a symbol of broken faith in government," said Representative Craig Gordon (D-162-Savannah).
"We must also give our citizens an opportunity to make good on their obligations," Representative Keith Heard (D-114-Athens).
http://accesswdun.com/article/2011/2/235797