Louisiana House Bill HB670

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/19/17
• Refer: 4/20/17

Caption

Provides with respect to the eligibility and amounts of certain tax credits

Impact

Under the current law, corporations benefit from a tax credit of $180 per employee who receives basic skills training, capped at $21,600 for any business or industry in a tax year. With the proposed changes in HB 670, this credit amount will decrease to $150. This change does not eliminate the credits but rather seeks to adjust the level of financial incentive businesses receive, which could affect their training budgets and overall employment strategies. On the production side, the bill modifies the credits related to motion picture investments to make them more accessible, particularly for smaller productions, potentially increasing local investment in film.

Summary

House Bill 670 modifies the eligibility criteria and financial amounts for certain tax credits related to motion picture production and basic skills training in Louisiana. The bill seeks to lower the investment thresholds required for obtaining tax credits tied to state-certified film productions while simultaneously reducing the per-employee tax credit available to employers for providing basic skills training to their employees. The overarching goal of these modifications appears to be fostering a more robust economic environment by adjusting incentives based on the state's fiscal needs and labor market conditions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 670 has been largely practical, centered on economic considerations. Proponents argue that these adjustments are essential for maintaining a competitive edge in attracting film production and promoting workforce development through basic skills training. Critics, however, might contend that diminishing the tax credits could discourage businesses from investing in employee training, ultimately undermining workforce quality in Louisiana. This dichotomy highlights a balancing act between fostering growth and sustaining the necessary support mechanisms for workforce skill enhancements.

Contention

One notable point of contention in discussions surrounding HB 670 relates to balancing economic benefits with fiscal responsibility. While some view reducing the tax credit amounts as a necessary correction to prevent potential abuse of tax incentives, others fear that it may stifle growth in critical industries like film, which have traditionally benefited Louisiana's economy. Furthermore, there are concerns that the adjustments may disproportionately affect smaller production companies or local businesses that rely heavily on state tax credits to operate and thrive.