Tennessee House Bill HB1019

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, Chapter 4, relative to tax credits.

Impact

The enactment of HB1019 is expected to impact state tax law by allowing businesses to claim substantial credits against their business, excise, and franchise taxes when they donate to certified organizations. This could boost funding for pregnancy resource centers and similar nonprofits, potentially leading to improved services for women experiencing unplanned pregnancies. Additionally, the bill sets a cap on the total tax credits that can be allocated per tax year, which is set at five million dollars, affecting the scope of the program and the number of organizations that could benefit from these credits.

Summary

House Bill 1019, titled the 'Pregnancy Resource Tax Credit Act,' introduces amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically in Title 67, Chapter 4, concerning tax credits for businesses that contribute to eligible charitable organizations. This legislation aims to incentivize businesses to support pregnancy centers and residential maternity facilities by offering tax credits equivalent to the monetary donations made to these organizations. The bill outlines specific criteria that charities must meet to be designated as 'eligible,' ensuring that the organizations focus on assisting women to carry pregnancies to term and do not engage in or support abortion services.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1019 may include the political and ethical implications of supporting pregnancy centers that are often associated with anti-abortion stances. Critics might argue that this bill allocates public resources toward organizations that promote a specific viewpoint on reproductive rights, potentially limiting access to abortion services. Supporters are likely to assert that the bill promotes greater support for women during pregnancies and helps to offer viable alternatives to abortion, reflecting a commitment to family and health.

Overall_note

The bill will require eligible organizations to maintain clear operational standards, such as serving clients for a minimum number of hours weekly and ensuring that contributions do not derive primarily from government sources. These requirements aim to foster accountability and transparency within funded organizations, while also delineating the type of support these organizations are expected to provide.