Postmark bill as date of receipt for property tax payments advances

Local units could soon be required to accept the postmark from the U.S. Postal Service if it is not less than five days prior to the property tax due date as the date of receipt for property tax payments and other communications or notifications. House Bill 4799, sponsored by Rep. Sarah Lightner (R-Tompkins Twp.), was reported by the House Finance Committee. MTA again opposed the legislation. Additionally, if electronic payment or electronic communication or notification is accepted, the date of submission would have to be considered the date of receipt. An electronic communication or notification is not property tax payment. Further, municipalities have no authority over USPS postmarks, USPS mail permits or financial institutions and where property tax payments originate. MTA is continuing to seek changes to this legislation, which will next be considered by the full House. Members are urged to share their opposition with their state representative.