PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: WAC 458-20-254 Recordkeeping.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 82.32.300 and 82.01.060(2).
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: This rule explains the record-keeping requirements for taxpayers who are liable for any taxes administered by the department of revenue. The rule also discusses records kept on microfilm/microfiche, records kept using an automated data process (ADP) accounting system, options for providing records by out-of-state businesses, and the consequences of failing to maintain and disclose complete and accurate records.
The department is considering a revision to this rule to include a discussion of electronic records since more and more business records are kept in this manner. In addition, businesses very seldom use microfilm/microfiche anymore.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The record-keeping requirements of other state agencies pertain to very specific activities, while the department of revenue's requirements are more general. The record-keeping requirements of the department of revenue are in line with those of the Internal Revenue Service.
Process for Developing New Rule: Parties interested in this rule making may contact the individual listed below. The public may also participate by providing written comments throughout this rule making or giving oral testimony at the public meeting or public hearing.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication. Written comments may be submitted by mail, fax, or at the public meeting. Oral comments will be accepted at the public meeting. A preliminary draft of possible rule changes is available for viewing and printing on our web site at http://dor.wa.gov/content/laws/RuleMaking/default.aspx. Written comments on and/or requests for copies of the rule may be directed to Richard Cason, Interpretations and Technical Advice Unit, P.O. Box 47453, Olympia, WA 98504-7453, e-mail RichardC@dor.wa.gov, phone (360) 664-0331, fax (360) 586-5543.
Public Meeting Location: Capital Plaza Building, 4th Floor Large Conference Room, 1025 Union Avenue S.E., Olympia, WA, on June 29, 2006, at 1:30 p.m.
Assistance for Persons With Disabilities: Contact Sandy Davis no later than ten days before the hearing date, TTY 1-800-451-7985 or (360) 725-7499.
May 24, 2006
Alan R. Lynn
Rules Coordinator