Relating to a prohibition on the receipt of tax incentives by business entities that assist employees to obtain abortions.
Impact
If enacted, HB 787 would significantly affect corporate practices concerning the provision of benefits that enable employees to access abortion services. The bill would amend state laws to disallow tax incentives for businesses that actively support employee access to abortions. This creates a regulatory environment that may discourage businesses from offering comprehensive health benefits that include abortion services, thereby impacting employee choices and rights across the state.
Summary
House Bill 787 seeks to prohibit business entities from receiving tax incentives if they assist their employees in obtaining abortions. This bill reflects an increasing trend in legislative efforts aimed at limiting support for abortion services within the business sector. The measure aims to address concerns from certain lawmakers and voter groups who oppose business involvement in reproductive rights and are focused on setting firm restrictions regarding funding and resources related to abortion access.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 787 appears to be polarized and contentious. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step in affirming the state's position on abortion and will prevent taxpayer dollars from being used to support practices they oppose. Conversely, opponents view the bill as an infringement on personal liberties and a misguided attempt to stifle reproductive rights. The ensuing debate raises concerns over the implications for women’s health services and employee benefits in the workplace.
Contention
Key points of contention surrounding HB 787 involve the balance between state legislation and business autonomy. Critics argue that the bill infringes on the rights of businesses to operate as they see fit and diminishes their ability to offer competitive employee benefits. Additionally, the bill raises important questions about the intersection of healthcare access, reproductive rights, and fiscal policy, stirring significant debate among stakeholders about the proper role of government in personal health decisions.
Relating to prohibiting the disbursement of certain economic and tax incentives to entities that assist, refer, or otherwise encourage a woman to obtain an abortion.
Authorizes cannabis cultivation on land receiving farmland assessment; technical assistance for cannabis businesses; and economic incentives for certain businesses operating in impact zones.
Assisting Small Businesses Not Fraudsters ActThis bill prohibits individuals convicted of certain financial crimes from receiving assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA).Specifically, the bill prohibits individuals who have been convicted of a crime involving financial misconduct or a false statement with respect to certain COVID-19 loans (e.g., Paycheck Protection Program loans, Restaurant Revitalization Fund grants, and Shuttered Venue Operators grants) from receiving any financial assistance from the SBA (other than a disaster loan).The prohibition includes SBA assistance to small businesses that have an owner, officer, director, or key employee who has been convicted of such a crime.