Bill > HB650

This bill establishes the Kentucky Tax Tribunal as a new independent administrative body within the executive branch, replacing the existing Board of Tax Appeals. The tribunal will serve as the single forum for all tax-related disputes in the Commonwealth, beginning January 1, 2027. Key provisions include creating a tribunal of one to three judges appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, with specific qualifications such as being a licensed attorney with substantial tax law knowledge. The judges will serve four-year terms, receive salaries comparable to Circuit Court judges, and be responsible for hearing tax-related cases across the state. The tribunal will have the authority to conduct hearings at its principal office in Frankfort and potentially at regional locations, with the ability to hold proceedings via video or audio conference. The bill outlines comprehensive procedural guidelines for filing petitions, conducting hearings, and making decisions, emphasizing a fair and independent process for resolving tax disputes. The tribunal will have jurisdiction over a wide range of tax-related matters, including property assessments, tax refunds, and challenges to tax regulations, with the goal of providing an efficient and accessible mechanism for taxpayers to resolve tax controversies. The existing Board of Tax Appeals will be abolished, and all its property, employees, and records will be transferred to the new tribunal.