BOSTON (AP) — State officials say thousands of Massachusetts taxpayers have taken advantage of a tax amnesty offer.

A two-month amnesty period during which ends individuals and businesses who owe back taxes can pay off their debts without paying penalties comes to an end on Tuesday.

The state Revenue Department says once the deadline passes, there are no plans to offer another amnesty program in the near future. That means delinquent taxpayers could face stiff penalties and even criminal prosecution if they continue to avoid paying back taxes they owe.

Revenue Commissioner Michael Heffernan says the agency is about to launch a new computer system that will improve tracking of unpaid taxes.

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