California Governor Signs Executive Order to Address COVID-19 Impacts

On July 31, 2020, the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, signed an executive order addressing certain property tax requirements impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The order extends the deadline for county assessment appeal boards to issue a decision on pending tax assessment appeals filed on or before March 4, 2020 to January 31, 2021. The pandemic caused cancellations at county appeal boards. Those cancellations created a risk that an appeal, without a waiver, would not be heard within the statutory two-year period. If that were to occur, the applicant’s opinion of value on the appeal application would be enrolled.

This order follows Newsom’s “state of emergency” order earlier this year, which our experts highlighted in a previous development. The closure of county facilities has required the postponement of scheduled appeal hearings and increased the backlog of appeals in some jurisdictions. As the economic damage created by the pandemic continues to evolve, the impact on existing property tax valuations merits review. Ryan is available to consult with clients on their individual circumstances. The experts at Ryan remain committed to closely monitoring legislative developments and communicating changes stemming from the pandemic. Please check back regularly on our COVID-19 Tax Updates site.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION CONTACTS:

Steve Buck
Principal
Ryan
818.543.4747
steve.buck@ryan.com

Marc Hartley
Principal
Ryan
442.244.2426
marc.hartley@ryan.com

Tom Loban
Principal
Ryan
442.244.2432
tom.loban@ryan.com

Susan Orloff
Principal
Ryan
818.543.4760
susan.orloff@ryan.com

Alan Schultz
Director
Ryan
408.850.4565
alan.schultz@ryan.com

The material presented in this communication is intended to provide general information only and should solely be seen as broad guidance and not directed to the particular facts or circumstances of any individual who may read this publication. No liability is accepted for acts or omissions taken in reliance upon the content of this piece. Before taking (or not taking) any action, readers should seek professional advice specific to their situation from Ryan, LLC or other tax professionals. For additional information about this topic, please contact us at info@ryan.com.