Virginia Senate Bill SB950

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/23
• Refer: 1/6/23

Caption

Income tax, state and corporate; Paycheck Protection Program loans.

Impact

If enacted, SB950 would lead to significant changes in how state income and corporate taxes are calculated, providing tax relief for businesses that received PPP loans during the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to alleviate the tax burden associated with such loans, allowing for deductions that would not be typically permitted under federal tax guidelines. By making these adjustments, the bill seeks to foster economic recovery for small businesses and contribute to a more favorable business environment in Virginia. However, the implications of these changes might require careful assessment from fiscal perspectives to ensure that state revenue is not adversely affected.

Summary

SB950 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the Virginia tax code to revise how income tax and corporate taxes are applied, particularly in relation to loans received through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The bill outlines various provisions for taxpayers regarding the treatment of these loans, allowing for deductions that could substantially impact their overall tax liabilities. Specifically, it offers clarity on the recognized gain from disposition of certain properties and includes deductions for business-related interest, thereby facilitating tax relief for corporations and self-employed individuals who have benefitted from PPP loans.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB950 has highlighted divided opinions among lawmakers regarding the extent of tax relief offered by the bill. Supporters argue that the amendments are essential for promoting business sustainability post-pandemic and provide vital support to the small business sector. Conversely, opponents express concerns about possible budgetary impacts, fearing that such tax deductions could strain state revenues in the long term. Additionally, there are apprehensions regarding fairness in tax treatment, particularly how corporate entities could utilize these provisions to their advantage compared to individual taxpayers.