Sen. Chris Dueñas on Wednesday said delays in generating 2025 real property tax statements highlight the need for stronger accountability measures and performance-based budgeting within government agencies.
Earlier in the day, Dueñas sent a letter to Department of Revenue and Taxation Director Marie Lizama requesting immediate public notice that 2025 real property tax statements had not been generated and assurances that taxpayers would receive the customary time period to pay once statements are issued, according to a media release.
“This is exactly the type of taxpayer protection and public communication our office called for today in writing to DRT,” Dueñas said. “It is unfortunate that it had to come to this point, with residents left in the dark, before clear public notice and accommodations were announced. Families should not be penalized because of an administrative delay that is not their fault!”
Dueñas said delayed billing can create confusion and financial strain for families.
“When bills arrive late, it creates confusion and financial strain, and it risks turning a government system problem into a taxpayer problem. Today’s directive helps prevent that,” he said.
The senator linked the issue to broader efforts to implement performance-based budgeting, which he said focuses on “accountability, measurable timelines, and transparent reporting.”
“When a core revenue function is delayed, the public deserves timely notice, a clear plan, and measurable progress updates. Transparency is not optional—it is essential to maintaining public trust,” Dueñas said. “While the waiver is appropriate, it does not replace the need for clear communication from DRT. The public should not have to rely on anonymous calls or legislative inquiries to learn about delays that affect every property owner on this island.”
Dueñas said he and his committee will continue oversight of DRT’s timeline for certifying the 2025 real property tax roll and issuing statements, as well as taxpayer accommodations and system modernization efforts.