Connecticut Senate Bill SB00645

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/17
• Refer: 1/25/17

Caption

An Act Establishing A Tax Break For Certain Commercial Property Owners.

Impact

The implementation of SB00645 could significantly alter the landscape for commercial property leasing. By granting tax breaks, the bill incentivizes property owners to take risks on start-up businesses, which may traditionally be seen as less stable tenants. This could lead to an increase in the occupancy rate of commercial properties that have remained vacant, which in turn would likely contribute positively to local economies by reducing blight, generating sales tax revenue, and promoting job creation through new businesses.

Summary

SB00645, introduced by Senator Linares, is aimed at providing a tax break to certain commercial property owners. Specifically, the bill proposes that commercial property owners will receive a tax incentive if they lease out their vacant commercial spaces to start-up corporations. This initiative is designed to encourage property owners to foster new businesses by providing them with reduced tax liabilities over a specified period of two years. The intended outcome is to stimulate economic growth and enhance local business ecosystems by supporting start-ups that may struggle to find affordable space in the market.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill will foster economic development through greater support for start-ups, there are concerns that this could lead to potential loopholes where property owners may unilaterally dictate terms beneficial to themselves while taking advantage of the tax breaks. Critics might highlight the need for regulations ensuring that the properties are genuinely leased to start-ups that provide community benefits rather than simply being a mechanism for property owners to profit without fulfilling the bill's intended objectives.