Arkansas 2022 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SR18

Introduced
2/14/22  

Caption

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Create The Reboot Pilot Program, Define "qualifying Former Offender", And Create An Income Tax Credit For Businesses That Hire A Qualifying Former Offender.

Impact

The bill, upon enactment, would amend Arkansas state laws by adding a new section to the tax code that defines 'qualifying former offender' and establishes a structured incentive for businesses hiring them. The Reboot Pilot Program will allow tax credits of increasing values based on the duration of employment for these individuals, promoting a longer employment tenure and providing fiscal benefits to employers. This aims to encourage businesses to engage with a demographic that often faces significant barriers to obtaining employment.

Summary

SR18 proposes the establishment of the Reboot Pilot Program, which aims to create an income tax credit for businesses that hire qualifying former offenders. The bill targets individuals released from incarceration within the last twelve months and aims to reduce recidivism rates by facilitating their reintegration into the workforce. According to legislative findings, Arkansas has significant recidivism rates, highlighting the necessity for programs that provide support for former offenders in securing employment and societal integration.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the eligibility criteria for the income tax credit and the practicality of the program's implementation. Some lawmakers may express concerns regarding the potential impacts on state revenue from the tax credits granted, while others may debate whether the program successfully addresses the needs of former offenders or if it inadvertently perpetuates bureaucracy. Furthermore, discussions may also center on the effectiveness of random drug testing stipulated in the bill, with some advocating for more supportive measures without punitive measures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HR1010

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law, To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR SR1

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law, To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR SR2

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill Amending The Revenue Stabilization Law, Creating Funds, Repealing Funds, And Making Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR HR1011

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill Amending The Revenue Stabilization Law, Creating Funds, Repealing Funds, And Making Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR SR10

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act.

AR HR1013

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Uniform Classification And Compensation Act.

AR HR1020

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR17

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR5

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR HR1009

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.