HARRISBURG, PA — Three prominent law schools in Pennsylvania have received a significant financial boost to broaden their support services for low-income taxpayers. This initiative, announced by Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne, involves a collective $150,000 grant to the Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, Temple University Beasley School of Law, and Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law.
Historically, these clinics have focused on federal tax issues, assisting individuals in disputes with the IRS. However, the recent funding allows them to extend their scope to Pennsylvania state tax matters. Each institution received $50,000 to enhance their capabilities in helping taxpayers tackle issues such as audits, appeals, and collections.
Secretary Browne emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Our experience has shown us that many Pennsylvanians need an advocate working on their behalf when they are attempting to navigate our Commonwealth’s tax system. That’s especially true for low-income taxpayers who may not have the resources to hire an attorney or tax professional to represent them.”
The LITCs are staffed by law students and experienced attorneys who offer their expertise to Pennsylvanians facing state tax challenges. The clinics do not prepare tax returns but focus on resolving issues such as liens, litigation, and worker misclassification. They work closely with the Pennsylvania Office of Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate, led by Vincent Pease, to provide comprehensive assistance to vulnerable residents.
Alice Stewart, Associate Professor of Law and Director of Legal Clinics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, highlighted the benefits of the funding, saying, “Through the generous funding made available by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, the Pitt Law Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic is now able to expand our legal representation to include Pennsylvania state tax issues.” She noted that this funding not only benefits taxpayers but also provides valuable practical experience for law students.
At Temple University Beasley School of Law, Omeed Firouzi, Practice Professor and Director of the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. “This new partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is an incredibly exciting opportunity for our clinic to more dedicatedly focus on state tax controversy issues,” he remarked. Firouzi underscored the importance of addressing state income tax liabilities and providing relief options for misclassified independent contractors.
Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law’s Associate Professor and Tax Clinic Director, Christine Speidel, echoed the sentiment. “We are thrilled that we can now help taxpayers in disputes with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as well as IRS disputes,” she said. Speidel encouraged individuals who have received tax-related notices to seek assistance from the clinic, emphasizing the importance of understanding legal options and exercising taxpayer rights.
This strategic funding aligns with Governor Josh Shapiro’s objectives to support Pennsylvanians in need and reduce financial burdens for families. By expanding the reach of LITCs, the Department of Revenue aims to ensure fair and equitable administration of state tax laws, thereby enhancing access to justice for low-income taxpayers across the Commonwealth.
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