Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB86

Introduced
1/26/23  
Report Pass
3/2/23  
Introduced
1/26/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Report Pass
3/2/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Report Pass
3/23/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Report Pass
3/23/23  
Chaptered
5/2/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
5/2/23  

Caption

Sales and use tax; sales of tangible personal property used for or in the renovation or expansion of certain aquariums; exempt

Impact

The amended provisions of HB 86 will create financial benefits for eligible aquariums and zoological institutions that are generally exempt from taxation under federal code. By facilitating tax exemptions, the bill aims to alleviate the financial burden typically associated with renovations and expansions, encouraging these institutions to enhance their facilities and services. This could potentially lead to increased visitation and revenue for both the institutions and the state, as improved facilities often attract more tourists and generate additional economic activity in the surrounding areas.

Summary

House Bill 86 seeks to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to provide exemptions from sales and use tax for tangible personal property that is used for or in the renovation or expansion of qualifying aquariums and zoological institutions. Specifically, it introduces tax exemptions that last from July 1, 2023, until December 31, 2026, or until a specified aggregate amount of refund claims has been met. The intention behind this bill is to incentivize improvements and expansions at these facilities, thereby supporting tourism and educational efforts in the state of Georgia.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 86 appears to be positive among legislators, especially those who see the value in promoting education and conservation efforts through enhanced public engagement with these facilities. Supporters emphasize that this bill is a necessary step towards invigorating local economies and fostering a culture of appreciation for wildlife and marine conservation. However, some concerns may linger regarding the sustainability of state tax revenues due to these exemptions, though such points have not dominated the conversation significantly.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 86 may arise from discussions about the balance between state revenue and supporting nonprofit entities, particularly regarding whether the projected benefits outweigh the potential tax revenue losses. Lawmakers advocating for fiscal responsibility might challenge the extent and duration of the exemptions, questioning if such measures are the best way to allocate state resources. Nonetheless, as the bill has successfully passed through voting, it suggests a consensus on its perceived benefits for state-funded educational and conservation initiatives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB2686

Provides a sales tax exemption for certain used tangible personal property

GA HB635

Provides a sales tax exemption for certain used tangible personal property

GA HB1145

Sales tax; exempt sales of tangible personal property and services to the Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport.

GA HB05977

An Act Exempting The Sale And Use Of Certain Tangible Personal Property For Mixed-income Developments From The Sales And Use Taxes.

GA SB572

Retail Sales and Use Tax; exemptions for tangible personal property used for public improvements.

GA HB1209

Sales and use tax; purchases of tangible property and construction materials used for or in the construction and furnishing of certain buildings; provide exemption

GA SB1211

Relating to an exemption from sales and use taxes for certain tangible personal property used in hydraulic fracturing.

GA HB4382

Relating to an exemption from sales and use taxes for certain tangible personal property used in hydraulic fracturing.

GA HB758

Sales tax; exempt certain sales of tangible personal property and services to churches.

GA HB1037

Sales tax; exempt certain sales of tangible personal property and services to churches.

Similar Bills

OR SJR2

Proposing an amendment to the Oregon Constitution relating to excluding partial exemptions and property tax credits from the requirement of redetermining the maximum assessed value of property granted exemption or credit.

US SB263

FAIR Act of 2025 Fifth Amendment Integrity Restoration Act of 2025

OR SJR3

Proposing an amendment to the Oregon Constitution relating to ad valorem property taxation.

IA HSB316

A bill for an act placing assessment limitations for property tax purposes on commercial child care facilities, and including effective date, applicability, and retroactive applicability provisions.(See HF 991.)

IA HF991

A bill for an act placing assessment limitations for property tax purposes on commercial child care facilities, and including effective date, applicability, and retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 316.)

MN HF631

Veterans with disability market value exclusion modified.

MN HF1756

Property tax; market value exclusion modified for veterans with a disability, exclusion amounts increased annually with inflation, and surviving spouses benefit modified.

MN SF3260

Property tax market value exclusion for veterans with a disability modification; exclusion amounts increase annually with inflation authorization; surviving spouses benefit modification