Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB59

Introduced
3/26/19  
Introduced
3/26/19  
Refer
3/26/19  
Refer
3/26/19  
Refer
4/8/19  
Report Pass
4/15/19  
Report Pass
4/15/19  
Engrossed
4/22/19  
Refer
4/23/19  
Refer
4/23/19  
Report Pass
5/20/19  
Enrolled
6/1/19  
Enrolled
6/1/19  
Chaptered
6/11/19  
Chaptered
6/11/19  
Passed
6/11/19  

Caption

Adds physician assistants to persons eligible for reduction to their individual income tax. (8/1/19) (EN -$77,000 GF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, SB 59 would provide significant reductions in individual income taxes for qualified practitioners. By including physician assistants among those eligible for this benefit, the bill acknowledges their crucial role in primary care, especially in areas lacking sufficient medical coverage. The tax incentives would be available for a maximum of five years and are only applicable for one relocation per eligible practitioner. This reflects a targeted effort to draw healthcare professionals to the regions that need them most, enhancing overall community health outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 59, introduced by Senator Long, seeks to amend Louisiana's income tax code to include physician assistants and optometrists as eligible recipients of a tax credit. This credit is aimed at incentivizing these medical professionals to establish and maintain their primary practice offices in high-need geographic areas, such as designated health professional shortage areas (HPSAs) and rural regions. The intent behind this legislative change is to bolster healthcare access in underserved areas of the state, responding to ongoing challenges in rural health provision.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 59 is generally positive among healthcare advocates and practitioners. Supporters view the bill as a proactive measure that recognizes the need for more healthcare providers in rural settings, facilitating a better distribution of medical resources. The feedback from legislators during discussions indicates a bipartisan acknowledgment of the challenges faced by rural healthcare systems. However, there remains an ongoing debate about the adequacy of such incentives and whether they will effectively address deeper systemic issues in healthcare access and affordability.

Contention

Notably, concerns have been raised regarding the duration and limits of the tax credit, particularly its potential to adequately attract healthcare professionals in the long term. Detractors argue that while the bill is a step in the right direction, it may not be enough to sustain long-term practice in under-served areas. Additionally, there are discussions about the effectiveness of tax credits versus other policy interventions that might be needed to fundamentally enhance healthcare services in Louisiana's rural communities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB280

Authorizes an income tax credit for certain primary care physician assistants (RE -$60,000 GF RV See Note)

LA SB166

Provides relative to physician assistants. (8/1/19)

LA HB427

Provides relative to the tax credit for certain medical providers (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)

LA HB82

Income tax; limit eligibility for rural physician tax credit to physicians who qualify on or before December 31, 2023

LA HB1

Provides for a flat rate for purposes of calculating income tax for individuals, estates, and trusts, increases the standard deduction, and modifies or repeals certain income tax deductions and credits (Item #5 and 6) (RE1 DECREASE GF RV See Note)

LA SB0360

Individual income tax: credit; credit for certain physicians and physician's assistants who serve as a preceptor; provide for. Amends 1967 PA 281 (MCL 206.1 - 206.847) by adding sec. 281.

LA HB4730

Individual income tax: credit; credit for certain physicians and physician's assistants who serve as a preceptor; provide for. Amends 1967 PA 281 (MCL 206.1 - 206.847) by adding sec. 281.

LA SB158

Provides for authority, responsibilities, and physician collaboration of a physician's assistant. (8/1/22)

LA HB416

Provides for a flat tax rate for purposes of calculating individual income tax and modifies other income tax credits and deductions (EG +$38,000,000 GF RV See Note)

LA S0044

Physician assistants

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.