Authorizes carry-back provisions for the net operating loss deduction for purposes of calculating corporate income tax (Item #20) (EG DECREASE GF RV See Note)
Impact
The enactment of HB 25 is expected to provide financial relief to corporations that have encountered business challenges during the specified time frame. It aims to facilitate the recovery of financially distressed businesses by allowing them to offset losses against past profits, thereby promoting reinvestment and job retention during difficult economic periods. Consequently, this bill could lead to a slight decrease in state revenue generated from corporate income tax in the short term, as refunds may need to be issued for overpayments resulting from the carry-back provisions.
Summary
House Bill 25 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending current tax regulations in Louisiana by allowing for a net operating loss carry-back deduction for corporate income tax calculations. The bill permits taxpayers to carry back 72% of their net operating losses to prior tax years, specifically for losses incurred between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. This is a significant shift from existing laws, which previously prohibited such carry-backs, creating an opportunity for corporations to potentially receive refunds on taxes paid in earlier years that exceeded their current tax liabilities due to losses.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 25 appears to be supportive among business sectors and economic growth advocates who view the bill as a vital measure for reviving struggling companies post-recession. Supporters argue that it will help stabilize businesses by providing them with immediate cash flow through tax refunds. However, there are concerns from fiscal watchdogs and some legislators who worry about the potential hollowing out of tax revenue for state services in the long run and the bill creating a precedent for similar tax deductions that could lead to further revenue challenges.
Contention
Key points of contention include debates regarding the appropriateness of such tax benefits in a time of fiscal austerity for the state. Critics assert that loosening these tax provisions could lead to exploitation by corporations, and they express a preference for targeted aid programs instead. Additionally, the limit of 72% on loss carry-backs raises questions about whether this will be sufficient for most corporations facing significant losses, as well as how it affects state fiscal planning and stability.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.