I am pleased to announce Senate Bill 582, a joint effort between my office and Senator Steve Knight, has passed both houses of the Legislature and reached the Governor’s desk.
SB 582 will make life simpler for taxpayers by requiring the Board of Equalization, Franchise Tax Board and Employment Development Department to consider integrating their websites to better serve taxpayers. The idea is to create a one-stop shop for taxpayers to visit for all of their tax services. This will streamline filing requirements by providing taxpayers with up-to-date integrated access to accounts with all three tax agencies.
In a 2005 report the non-partisan Legislative Analyst’s Office urged the creation of a portal that would allow a taxpayer to “log onto a single website and through a series of menus, be directed to the proper form which would allow them to file their taxes or remit a payment.” As you can see, this reform is long overdue.
It’s not easy doing business in California. One of many challenges for a business owner is the confusing nature of having to pay taxes to three separate state tax agencies. This legislation takes an important and common sense first step toward streamlining this process, increasing voluntary compliance and enhancing the taxpayer experience.
Your opinion and voice matter! Please call Governor Brown at (916) 445-2841 and urge him to sign this important efficiency measure.