Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2847

Introduced
3/4/26  

Caption

Caps delinquent tax interest rate at 12%. Prohibits audits beyond 3 years from date of tax filing, 7 years for fraudulent filings, and in no event beyond 10 years from date of filing or required filing date, whichever is later.

Impact

In terms of the impact on state laws, S2847 introduces strict limits on the duration for which the state tax administrator can conduct audits. The bill restricts the audit period for ordinary tax returns to three years following the date of filing, while in instances of fraudulent returns, the audit duration can extend to seven years. Additionally, audits cannot be initiated beyond a ten-year threshold from the original filing date or required deadline, providing taxpayers with greater security against extended retroactive tax audits.

Summary

S2847 is a legislative act aimed at amending the state's tax regulations concerning delinquent tax payments and audit practices. The bill proposes that, effective January 1, 2027, the interest rate for all delinquent taxes will be capped at twelve percent (12%) per annum. This measure seeks to bring clarity and consistency in how interest on unpaid taxes is calculated, effectively preventing excessively high rates that might burden taxpayers.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S2847 include concerns from fiscal conservatives regarding the potential revenue implications for the state. Critics argue that lowering the interest rates could reduce the urgency for taxpayers to settle their obligations promptly, potentially leading to higher overall delinquency rates. Meanwhile, proponents defend the bill's approach as a necessary measure to create a more equitable tax environment that reduces the disproportionate financial strain on individuals with delinquent taxes.

Overall_assessment

In summary, S2847 represents a significant shift in the state's taxation framework, particularly for delinquent taxes. By capping interest rates and limiting audit durations, the bill aims to create a more taxpayer-friendly environment. However, the implications for state revenue and the enforcement of tax laws remain focal points in discussions among legislators and stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5757

Caps delinquent tax interest rate at 12%. Prohibits audits beyond 3 years from date of tax filing, 7 years for fraudulent filings, and in no event beyond 10 years from date of filing or required filing date, whichever is later.

RI S0655

Caps delinquent tax interest rate at 12%. Prohibits audits beyond 3 years from date of tax filing, 7 years for fraudulent filings, and in no event beyond 10 years from date of filing or required filing date, whichever is later.

RI H6133

Provides that the statute of limitations for second-degree sexual assault shall be 10 years from the date of the offense, or, in the case of a victim who is under the age of 18, ten years from the victim’s eighteenth birthday, whichever is later.

RI H5760

Raises the earned-income tax credit from twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) for the tax years 2026 and beyond.

RI S0413

Increases the LLC organization fee to $500. Exempts the LLC from filing an annual tax return, paying the minimum tax and obtaining a letter of good standing from the division of taxation in order to dissolve.

RI H5473

Creates an additional tax rate of 3% on taxable income over $625,000 in 2025 dollars. Applies to tax years 2026 and thereafter and not retroactively.

RI S0329

Creates an additional tax rate of 3% on taxable income over $625,000 in 2025 dollars. Applies to tax years 2026 and thereafter and not retroactively.

RI S0657

Authorizes the tax administrator to waive interest and penalties on delinquent taxes paid in full during a one week amnesty period.

RI H5642

Provides amendments to the assessment of filing fees required to appeal from certain matters adjudicated by the district court.

RI S0539

Provides amendments to the assessment of filing fees required to appeal from certain matters adjudicated by the district court.

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