Louisiana House Bill HB520

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/21
• Refer: 4/2/21
• Refer: 4/12/21

Caption

Phases-out the corporation income and franchise taxes and reduces the amount of exemptions, deductions, and credits that may be claimed to reduce corporate income and franchise tax liability (OR DECREASE GF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 520 would represent a significant shift in Louisiana's corporate tax environment. Starting in 2023, corporations will experience decreased rates on their taxable income, with provisions to eliminate taxes entirely by 2026. Critics of the bill have raised concerns regarding potential negative impacts on the state's revenue base, suggesting that such reductions may lead to inadequate funding for public services. Conversely, supporters argue that these tax cuts will foster a more attractive environment for businesses and stimulate investment and job creation.

Summary

House Bill 520, sponsored by Representative Nelson, seeks to phase out corporate income and franchise taxes over a four-year period, significantly impacting the way corporations are taxed in Louisiana. The bill proposes a gradual reduction of corporate tax rates, ultimately eliminating both the corporate income tax and franchise tax by January 1, 2026. Furthermore, it repeals the ability to deduct federal income taxes paid when calculating corporate income tax liability, aiming to streamline the tax structure and potentially attract more businesses to the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 520 is contentious. Proponents, primarily from the business sector and some political supporters, view these changes as necessary for economic growth and competitiveness. However, opponents, including various advocacy groups and some legislators, express skepticism, arguing that reducing corporate taxes could result in diminished funding for essential services and exacerbate existing budget challenges. This dichotomy reflects a broader debate over prioritizing business growth versus maintaining public funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the repeal of federal tax deductibility and the phased-out tax incentives, which critics suggest may disproportionately benefit larger corporations while neglecting small businesses. Furthermore, the potential increase in state budget deficits due to the significant reductions raises alarms among public finance experts. The bill's proponents assert that tax relief can lead to increased economic activity, positing a strong economic return that could offset revenue losses, yet this premise is not universally accepted.