everything you want to know (and don't) about arkansas politics

Republican Sponsorship
Taxes & Budget

HB1240

To Amend The Income Tax Laws Relating To Certain Trusts; To Preserve Certain Trust Assets; And To Exempt Certain Trusts From Income Tax.

Failed

Last Action (May 1, 2023): Died in House Committee at Sine Die Adjournment

Sponsors

AI-Generated Summary

House Bill 1240 amends Arkansas income tax law to provide a tax exemption for certain nongrantor trusts. The bill specifically exempts trusts from state income tax if they are administered by a trustee who is a resident of Arkansas and qualify as a nongrantor trust under federal law. The stated legislative intent is to make Arkansas more competitive in the financial services sector by incentivizing residents to keep trust assets within the state. By removing the tax incentive to establish trusts in other states, the bill aims to encourage the management and administration of trust assets by Arkansas-based trustees. The act applies to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2023.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries are Arkansas-based trust companies, professional trustees, and wealth management firms, as the bill encourages the relocation of trust administration to the state. Additionally, Arkansas residents who establish nongrantor trusts stand to benefit from potential tax savings and the ability to manage their assets locally without the disadvantage of state-level income taxation on those trusts.

Who Might Suffer?

The primary entity negatively impacted is the State of Arkansas, which will see a decrease in state income tax revenue due to the new exemption for certain trusts. There is no direct negative impact on specific private citizens, though the loss of potential tax revenue could theoretically reduce the funds available for general state government operations and public services.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us