Chairperson Smith opened the hearing for HB2712.

Mr. Siebers provided an overview for HB2712 that increases authority for a county to propose a countywide retailers' sales tax to the electors and provides for the dedicated apportionment of special purpose tax revenues up to 2.0 percent and the limits countywide and city retailers special purpose sales taxes to 10 years. (Attachment 2)  Mr. Siebers stood for questions from Committee members.

Amy Kramer, Kansas Department of Revenue, provided a couple of suggested changes to HB2712 and will work with the Mr. Siebers to have the exact wording for the bill.

Proponents:

Aaron Mays, Kansas Association of Counties, testified as a proponent for HB2712.  Counties across Kansas strongly support the provision of the bill that removes the requirement for legislative approval before a county may place a local sales tax question on the ballot.  The change is a meaningful improvement in how local governments are able to respond to local needs while preserving transparency and voter control. (Attachment 3)

Marvin Matchett, Kansas Legislative Policy Group, provided proponent written only testimony for HB2712.(Attachment 4)

John Goodyear, League of Kansas Municipalities, provided neutral written only testimony for HB2712. (Attachment 5)

Chairperson Smith closed the hearing for HB2712.