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HB1630

To Require Specific Performance As The Remedy For The Breach Of Contracts That Include Certain Precious Metals As Consideration; And To Exclude From Gross Income Any Gain Realized From The Sale Of Certain Precious Metals.

Failed

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

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AI-Generated Summary

House Bill 1630 proposes changes to Arkansas law regarding contracts involving gold or silver coins and bullion. It stipulates that if a contract explicitly includes such items as consideration, Arkansas courts must mandate specific performance as the legal remedy for a breach of that contract. Furthermore, the bill amends state income tax law to exempt gains realized from the sale of these specific precious metals from gross income. It provides formal definitions for 'bullion' and 'coin' to clarify which assets qualify for these legal and tax treatments. The bill also clarifies that no person can be forced to accept these items as legal tender unless otherwise agreed upon by contract or provided by law. These provisions are intended to encourage the voluntary use of precious metals in private contractual agreements.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries include investors, collectors, and individuals who utilize gold and silver bullion or coins for wealth storage or as a form of consideration in private contracts. These individuals would benefit from the tax exemption on capital gains derived from such assets and the increased legal security provided by the requirement for specific performance in contract disputes.

Who Might Suffer?

The state government would be negatively impacted by a reduction in tax revenue due to the exemption of capital gains from the sale of precious metals. Additionally, parties entering into contracts involving these assets might face increased legal rigidity, as courts would be required to enforce specific performance rather than alternative remedies like monetary damages, which may not always be practical or equitable depending on market fluctuations.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us