Alabama House Bill HB292

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/23
• Refer: 4/11/23
• Report Pass: 4/26/23
• Engrossed: 5/25/23
• Refer: 5/25/23

Caption

Relating to exemptions from ad valorem taxation; to amend Section 40-9-1, as last amended by Act 2022-199 of the 2022 Regular Session, Code of Alabama 1975; to exempt certain aircraft from ad valorem taxation.

Impact

The passage of HB 292 is designed to provide significant tax relief to operators within the aviation sector, allowing for easier financial management of aircraft operations. Advocates argue that this could lead to increased investment in Alabama’s aviation industry, resulting in more jobs and enhanced economic growth. By reducing the tax burden on air carriers, the bill aims to make Alabama a more attractive location for both existing aviation companies and new entrants into the market.

Summary

House Bill 292 aims to amend Alabama's current tax code by introducing exemptions for certain aircraft from ad valorem taxation. This bill proposes that specific aircraft, along with associated equipment and supplies, will no longer be subject to property taxes, provided they are used by certified air carriers engaging in intra- and inter-state commerce. This aligns with ongoing attempts to bolster the aviation industry within Alabama and potentially attract more business to the region.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its critics. Opposition arises primarily from concerns that the tax exemptions may disproportionately benefit larger companies while offering minimal to no benefits to smaller, local businesses. Additionally, some lawmakers express skepticism about potential revenue loss for local governments, who rely on ad valorem tax collections to fund essential public services. This tension between economic incentives for the aviation industry and local fiscal responsibilities forms a core point of contention surrounding HB 292.