TAX NEWS - January 2009

Betty T. Yee Named Chairwoman of the State Board of Equalization - california tax

The California State Board of Equalization (BOE) today unanimously voted to name Betty T. Yee as Chairwoman of the publicly elected tax board. The BOE also selected Dr. Judy Chu, PhD as Vice Chair.

"I look forward to leading the Board during these economically challenging times," Yee said. "Efficient tax collection and fair treatment of taxpayers are key components in addressing our budgetary issues."

Betty T. Yee, Chairwoman of the Board, represents the First Equalization District and its 21 counties in northern and central California, including the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Ms. Yee served as Vice Chairwoman of the Board from January 2008 to January 2009 and Chairwoman from January 2007 to January 2008.

Ms. Yee has more than 25 years of experience in public service, specializing in state and local finance. Ms. Yee previously served as Chief Deputy Director for Budget with the Department of Finance where she led the development of the Governor's Budget, negotiations with the Legislature and key budget stakeholders, and fiscal analyses on behalf of the Administration.

The Chairwoman and Vice Chair positions were decided today at the first 2009 meeting of the California State Board of Equalization. The five-member Board includes Chairwoman Betty T. Yee (First District), Vice Chair Dr. Judy Chu, PhD (Fourth District), Member Bill Leonard (Second District) and Member Michelle Steel (Third District), and California State Controller John Chiang.

The California State Board of Equalization (BOE) is a publicly elected tax board. The BOE collects more than $53 billion annually in taxes and fees supporting state and local government services. It hears business tax appeals, acts as the appellate body for franchise and personal income tax appeals, and serves a significant role in the assessment and administration of property taxes.