Tax system in Utah may be overhauled

If you listen to the leaders of the state’s new Tax Reform Task Force, big changes are likely coming: Maybe the income/sales tax system will be junked for a consumer tax; or a flat rate income tax that doesn’t give a break for home-mortgage interest or child deductions.

"There are no sacred cows" in a comprehensive review of Utah’s whole tax system, Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, said Monday morning at the first meeting of the 15-member task force. Every idea or current tax exemption is on the table.

"I’ve been known to upset a few apple carts and hope to do that this summer. Hold on, we’re going to be busy," said Rep. Wayne Harper, R-West Jordan, who co-chairs the task force with Bramble.

But the reality may be much different; special interest and/or personal politics will undoubtedly come into play.

"We can get this study done" in time for comprehensive recommendations for the 2006 Legislature, which convenes next January, said House Minority Leader Ralph Becker, D-Salt Lake.

"But will we? You can only hope," he added.

By Bob Bernick Jr.
Deseret Morning News

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