Flat Income Tax is Back

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Governor Huntsman's persistence appears to have revived a proposal that would allow Utahns to pay a flat 5.25% income tax or stick with the existing structure. During interim committee meetings Wednesday, lawmakers seemed cautious, but hopeful, that income tax reform will happen within a year.

Representative John Dougall is now championing the so-called "dual tax system" which would give Utahns a choice, and perhaps more importantly, creates no "losers." That was a major concern in previous proposals - along with the serious miscalculation that meant Huntsman's first flat tax plan would be far more costly than expected.

Dougall says analysts have taken time to make sure they have the numbers right and lawmakers plan to move slowly in adopting a new plan. However, upcoming elections have some lawmakers particularly eager to meet in special session and give voters a tax cut before they visit the polls.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom and Legislative Coverage. Copyright 2008 KCPW