Connecticut House Bill HB05411

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/17/23

Caption

An Act Authorizing A Tax Credit For Farm Products Donated To Charitable Organizations.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would amend the current tax statutes to include provisions specifically for tax credits related to the donation of farm goods. This modification would create a financial incentive for farmers, potentially increasing the volume of food distributed through charitable organizations. Furthermore, it could strengthen partnerships between local farmers and charities, encouraging a collaborative approach in addressing food insecurity. By boosting charitable donations of farm products, the bill aligns with broader state goals of assisting low-income families and promoting access to healthy food.

Summary

House Bill 05411 proposes the establishment of an income tax credit for farmers who donate their farm products to charitable organizations that provide food assistance to the needy. This initiative aims to incentivize agriculture producers to engage in charitable acts by reducing their tax liabilities, thereby promoting food security in underprivileged communities. The intent behind the bill is to facilitate the distribution of surplus agricultural products to those in need while simultaneously supporting farmers in their efforts to donate.

Contention

While the bill seems to have a noble purpose, discussions surrounding it may bring up issues related to the efficacy of tax credits in achieving the intended outcomes. Critics could argue that such tax incentives might not significantly alter farmers' behavior or that they may not adequately address the complexities of food distribution logistics. Additionally, there might be concerns about the administrative aspects of implementing the tax credit system, including how to prevent fraud and ensure that the donations go directly to those in need. Overall, the measure is likely to spark a debate on the best approaches to enhance food donation efforts and support the agricultural sector.