2003 Senate Bill 811 / Public Act 274

Introduced in the Senate

Oct. 30, 2003

Introduced by Sen. Nancy Cassis (R-15)

To clarify the definition of "special tools" which are exempt from personal property tax. "Special tools" are dies, jigs, fixtures, molds, patterns, gauges, or other tools that are used in manufacturing, and are of such a specialized nature that their utility will end if the product is discontinued. The personal property tax is a tax on the tools and equipment that businesses use to provide goods and services. The bill was introduced because recent tax commission rulings have caused the tax to be applied to tools which had previously been exempt.

Referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor

Dec. 11, 2003

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-4) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one which incorporates technical changes that do not affect the substance of the bill as previously described.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Passed in the Senate 38 to 0 (details)

Received in the House

Dec. 16, 2003

Referred to the Committee on Commerce

Dec. 17, 2003

Reported without amendment

Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.

Dec. 18, 2003

Amendment offered by Rep. David Woodward (D-26)

To limit the scope of the special tools personal property tax exemption by narrowing the definition of a special tool.

The amendment failed 42 to 67 (details)

Passed in the House 81 to 24 (details)

To clarify the definition of "special tools" which are exempt from personal property tax. "Special tools" are dies, jigs, fixtures, molds, patterns, gauges, or other tools that are used in manufacturing, and are of such a specialized nature that their utility will end if the product is discontinued. The personal property tax is a tax on the tools and equipment that businesses use to provide goods and services. The bill was introduced because recent tax commission rulings have caused the tax to be applied to tools which had previously been exempt.

Signed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm

Dec. 31, 2003