Publicity for State’s Toll-Free Hot Line : Davis Records Tax Tips for Radio Listeners

Radio listeners all over California soon will be hearing the voice of newly elected Controller Gray Davis offering them tips on filing their state income taxes.

Under a $10,000 program paid for by the Franchise Tax Board, which collects state income taxes, Davis has recorded a series of public service announcements publicizing extended hours for the board’s toll-free tax hot line.

The controller’s name and title get top billing in the ads that also include tips on how to get a larger tax return through such techniques as claiming tax credits for child care or by deducting the costs of finding a new job.

The board has produced similar radio announcements in each of the last four years. But all used professional announcers and none mentioned the state controller or any other elected officials by name.

At a press conference, Davis said Wednesday he does not view the ads as an attempt at self-promotion. “It was my motion to extend the hours of the tax line,” he said, noting that as state controller he also serves as chairman of the Franchise Tax Board.

“I think it’s appropriate that we bring this program to the attention of several million Californians who do not use professional tax consultants. . . . This program exists. It’s obvious that many have not taken advantage of it and I want to help them.”

Employees of the tax board answer more than 15,000 calls each day on the toll-free hot line, which had been operating since 1978 during regular business hours. The new extended hours, through the April 15 filing deadline, are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The toll-free number from most areas of Southern California is (800) 852-5711.