New Jersey Assembly Bill A283

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Provides corporation business tax credits and gross income tax credits to farm employers for providing lodging or transportation benefits.

Impact

If enacted, A283 would significantly affect how farm employers manage employee housing and transportation arrangements, potentially enhancing their ability to attract and retain workers. The bill stipulates strict criteria for lodging benefits to qualify for tax credits, including that the accommodation must be on the farm, for the employer's convenience, and required as a job condition for at least six continuous weeks. Such requirements are designed to ensure that the benefits provided are genuinely essential to the farming operation and that the employers are incentivized to meet these conditions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A283 proposes to supply corporation business tax (CBT) credits and gross income tax (GIT) credits to farm employers in New Jersey. The primary focus is to support farm employers who offer lodging or transportation benefits to their employees. Under this proposed bill, farmers would be eligible for a tax credit of $250 for each employee receiving lodging and up to $500 for each employee who receives transportation benefits. This initiative aims to relieve some financial burdens associated with employing laborers in a sector that often struggles with workforce management and logistics.

Contention

There is potential for contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding its impact on non-farm employers as well as the administrative processes involved in qualifying for these credits. Critics might argue that it unnecessarily favors one sector of the economy over others and that the tax implications need thorough management. Additionally, the bill’s provision that credits may not be applied to costs already covered by other credits could complicate financial planning for farm employers. Furthermore, while proponents argue the bill promotes agricultural employment and operational viability, the need for compliance with state tax regulations could create administrative challenges for many farmers.