Louisiana House Bill HB268

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/13
• Refer: 4/8/13

Caption

Authorizes an income tax deduction for taxpayers who employ certain qualified disabled individuals (OR DECREASE GF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 268 would aim to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, thereby fostering greater inclusion within the workforce. The financial incentives provided by this bill could lead to a more supportive work environment for disabled individuals, potentially reducing unemployment rates in this demographic. By encouraging businesses to hire more qualified disabled individuals, the bill seeks to create a more equitable job market, which could positively affect both the economy and society as a whole.

Summary

House Bill 268 introduces an income tax deduction for taxpayers who employ qualified disabled individuals. This measure is aimed at encouraging businesses to hire individuals with disabilities by providing a financial incentive. Specifically, taxpayers could receive a deduction amounting to 50% of the gross wages paid to qualified disabled individuals during their first four months of employment, followed by 30% for subsequent months. The bill defines 'qualified disabled individuals' broadly to include those with severe disabilities as recognized under state law and veterans with certain service-connected disabilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 268 appears to be predominantly positive among supporters who argue that it is a necessary step toward increasing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Advocates believe that the tax deduction will not only help those individuals find meaningful employment but also assist employers in offsetting some costs associated with hiring. However, there may be concerns regarding how effective these measures will be in practice and whether they will lead to meaningful changes in hiring practices across the state.

Contention

There may be points of contention related to the criteria for what constitutes a 'qualified disabled individual' and how effectively the financial incentive will be administered. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups could argue that the bill does not go far enough in addressing systemic barriers to employment faced by individuals with disabilities. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the accountability measures in place to ensure that employers are genuinely creating inclusive workplaces and not merely using the tax deductions as a financial gain while failing to support their employees adequately.