Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB1195

Introduced
2/8/24  
Report Pass
2/21/24  
Introduced
2/8/24  

Caption

Income tax; workforce-ready graduates employed in high-tech full-time jobs in rural counties; provide tax credit

Impact

If enacted, HB 1195 will affect state income tax laws by introducing a specific tax credit structure for certain employment scenarios. Graduates qualifying as workforce-ready and securing jobs in specified high-tech fields will be eligible for a tax credit of $4,000 annually, with a cumulative cap of $12,000. These provisions aim to incentivize employers to hire qualified graduates and maintain employment for at least 40 weeks within a year. The anticipated result is a more skilled workforce in high-demand sectors, which could improve the employment landscape in rural areas considerably.

Summary

House Bill 1195 aims to encourage workforce development by offering a tax credit for workforce-ready graduates employed in high-tech full-time jobs within rural counties in Georgia. The bill mandates the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) to establish criteria for recognizing graduates as workforce-ready and coming from certain high-tech disciplines, including engineering and computer sciences. This legislative initiative targets the support and attraction of high-skill employment opportunities in economically challenged areas, thereby enhancing economic growth in rural settings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1195 is predominantly positive among supporters, who argue that the bill will bolster the economic fabric of rural counties by promoting the recruitment and retention of high-tech talent. This is positioned as a crucial strategy to combat unemployment and poverty in these regions. However, critics might contend that the bill could inadvertently limit job opportunities for individuals without a formal degree or certification, thus narrowing the employment pool in high-tech sectors. This aspect has raised discussions about inclusivity in workforce development initiatives.

Contention

The notable points of contention regarding HB 1195 include the restriction of benefits to workforce-ready graduates only, which some argue may exclude many capable workers who do not meet the education criteria. Additionally, the structure of the tax credit might spark debates around its sufficiency in genuinely attracting high-tech jobs versus its potential to serve as a mere financial incentive without addressing root socio-economic issues. There are also concerns about the effectiveness of the TCSG’s implementation and criteria establishment by the required deadline of January 2025, given the challenges of aligning education systems with rapidly evolving job market demands.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB7

Income tax; workforce-ready graduates employed in high-tech full-time jobs in rural counties; provide tax credit

GA HB512

Income tax; small business employers that employ certified workforce-ready graduates in high-tech full-time jobs; provide tax credit

GA HB14

Income tax; tax credit for employers that employ certified workforce-ready graduates; provide

GA SB422

Income taxes: credits: qualified employees.

GA AB2041

Income taxes: credits: qualified employees.

GA HB1431

Income tax credit; film; certain qualified productions that are shot in certain rural counties; provide additional credit

GA HB341

Income tax; certain employers that offer individual coverage health reimbursement arrangements to employees; create tax credit

GA SB0164

INCOME TAX-EMPLOYMENT CREDIT

GA HB263

Income tax; tax credit for certain remote work expenses incurred by employers; provide

GA HB930

Income tax; refundable credit for grocery, transportation, and utility costs; provide

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.