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Thompson, LaMalfa Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Fire Victims Don’t Pay Taxes on PG&E Court-Ordered Trust Payments

Washington –

Today, Reps. Mike Thompson (CA-05) and Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that no fire survivors are taxed on the payments they received from the PG&E Fire Victims Trust. Following fires in 2015, 2017, and 2018, PG&E established a court-ordered trust of over $13 billion for survivors of these devastating events.

“I have heard from constituents across our community who are deeply, deeply concerned that they will face a tax burden upon receiving a payout from PG&E,” said Thompson. “This trust was set up to help people get back on their feet and recover after a destructive fire. They should not have to pay taxes on these payouts. I am proud to introduce this bill alongside Rep. LaMalfa to help our constituents receive the money they are owed, and will continue working to ensure survivors have the resources they need to recover from these tragedies.”

“Fire victims have lost homes, belongings, and for some, even their loved ones. We should not ask survivors to pay federal taxes on compensation that they will use to rebuild their lives. And we certainly should not be asking them to pay taxes on […]

Affected by the Power Outages? Tax Relief May Be Available.

Some tax relief is available for California taxpayers affected by the frequent power shutoffs that plague the state. The CA Franchise Tax Board is advising taxpayers impacted by the safety-related power blackouts that began in October 2019 that they may be eligible for penalty relief if the penalties are due to the shutoffs. Taxpayers in impacted counties may request penalty abatement upon a showing of reasonable cause. For details, go to https://bit.ly/2PzCN9r and arrow down to “Extended deadlines.” If you have questions about how the shut offs may have affected you or your business with concerns related to tax payments or penalties, please contact your Linkenheimer CPA.