To help facilitate the understanding of the new tax law passed by the Texas Legislature in May, the American Rental Association (ARA) and Texas Rental Association (TRA) hosted informational meetings in Dallas and Texas. The bill, H.R. 2476, amends the Texas heavy equipment property tax assessment procedures. The law took effect on Jan. 1, 2012, leaving little time for those affected to plan for implementation. “The ARA and TRA strongly recommend that all rental companies that have any equipment for rent that meets the definition of heavy equipment under the Texas law become familiar with the statute and consult with your county tax assessor(s) and collector(s),” says John McClelland, ARA’s vice president for government affairs. McClelland hosted the informational meetings to explain what H.R. 2476 does, define the terms of the law, outline steps to compliance and answer questions. Though a lot of information was offered at these meetings, heavy equipment owners in Texas were strongly encouraged to consult with tax professionals to develop a comprehensive plan for compliance. “Many of the provisions of the law must be interpreted by the Office of the Controller. We currently do not have final guidance from the Controller and therefore we are only able to provide information that reflects our understanding of the law,” McClelland says.
| State, local and provincial associations are driven by ARA members who give their time and expertise to provide programs and services that can benefit members close to home, including education and training, government advocacy, industry trends and networking opportunities. Participation at the local level those in the equipment rental industry stay up to date on industry issues through personal connections, as well as exposure to products and information regarding solutions to common rental industry issues that affect all businesses. For further information or to get involved, ARA members are encouraged to contact a member of their respective state board. Contact information, as well as a current calendar of state and local events, can be found by logging in at ARArental.org, clicking on “My ARA” and “State/Local/Provincial Associations.”
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| Maine members learn about ARA services
ARA of Maine had one-third of its member stores represented at its November meeting, which focused on taking advantage of the rental-specific products and services available through the American Rental Association (ARA). After a presentation by Ruth Bloom, ARA’s director of state, local and provincial programs, attendees had the opportunity to tour Party Plus in Biddeford, Maine, and Taylor Rental Center in Sanford, Maine, respectively owned by Susan Gajewski and her brother, Jim Dearborn.
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