PNELF Admonishes DOR for Inaction on Unauthorized and Unconstitutional Commercial Tax Overcharges

The Pioneer New England Legal Foundation (PNELF) is calling out the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) for refusing to act on clear evidence that the City of Boston is penalizing commercial taxpayers for exercising their constitutional right to appeal overassessments.

In response to PNELF’s most recent letter detailing these illegal practices, the Commissioner of Revenue claimed his office could not substantiate the findings, asserted he could not discuss specific properties, and insisted he was not allowed to advocate for any individual taxpayer. He also declined PNELF’s repeated request to meet and review the evidence.

PNELF’s reply, sent today, specifically calls out the flaws in the Commissioner’s response:

– He offered no explanation of any steps taken to investigate the evidence PNELF provided.
– PNELF never requested a discussion of specific taxpayers.
– PNELF never asked him to advocate for an individual taxpayer.

“This is about fairness, transparency, and ensuring the City cannot punish those who exercise their rights,” Frank Bailey stated. “The Commissioner’s refusal to address the evidence is unacceptable.”

We encourage the public to review our third letter to the Commissioner here. If you have been affected by this issue, we want to hear from you. Please email Frank at frank.bailey@pioneerlegal.org.