Sales tax distribution bill heads to conference committee as House, Senate disagree on formula
A bill that would change how countywide retail sales tax revenue is divided among local governments is among two measures heading to special negotiating committees after the chambers passed competing versions.
TOPEKA, Kan. — The legislative process for SB 33 moved behind closed doors Monday after the House and Senate agreed to form conference committees to resolve their differences. The move indicates the chambers passed different versions of the bill and must now appoint small groups of negotiators to broker compromises.
SB 33 would change how countywide retailers' sales tax revenue is apportioned. Under the bill, the money would be distributed based on the total assessed property valuations of the county and its cities, rather than the current formula based on property taxes levied. The seemingly technical change could have significant financial implications, shifting millions in revenue between local governments. The need for a conference committee suggests a fundamental disagreement between the House and Senate on which formula is more equitable.
Conference committees are a critical part of the lawmaking process. The small groups of representatives and senators, typically from the committees that originally handled the bills, are tasked with finding compromises that can win majority support in both chambers before the legislation can be sent to the governor.
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