Mississippi House Bill HB240

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/22
• Refer: 1/4/22
• Failed: 2/23/22

Caption

Income tax; authorize a credit for costs incurred by certain taxpayers for storm shelter/safe room construction.

Impact

The enactment of HB240 will enable qualified property owners to receive substantial financial support through tax credits, thus promoting the construction of safe structures in areas vulnerable to natural disasters. With a maximum aggregate amount of tax credits set at $5 million per year, this measure is expected to enhance disaster preparedness across the state of Mississippi. The bill encourages property owners to invest in essential safety features, potentially reducing the risks associated with extreme weather events for residents.

Summary

House Bill 240 aims to provide an income tax credit for taxpayers who incur costs related to the construction, acquisition, or installation of storm shelters or safe rooms specifically for multi-family residential properties. The bill defines a storm shelter as a hardened structure designed to protect individuals during extreme wind events and requires that such shelters be certified by relevant authorities. The tax credit available to eligible taxpayers is set at 50% of the costs incurred, capped at $20,000, and aimed at incentivizing improvements in safety features for residents in multi-family housing units.

Contention

While the bill serves to bolster safety measures, potential points of contention may arise regarding its financial implications. Critics of tax credits often express concern about the impacts on state revenue, as allocating $5 million annually could affect funding for other important services. Additionally, there may be debates over the scope of properties deemed 'qualified' and whether the tax credit requirements are sufficient to ensure widespread compliance and utilization of the program.