New Jersey Assembly Bill A2487

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Increases qualified research expenses tax credit for corporation business taxpayers engaged in targeted industries; increases basic research payment tax credit; allows research tax credit to be refundable.

Impact

The passage of A2487 is expected to support and stimulate economic growth by incentivizing corporations to invest in research and development activities in New Jersey. By identifying and supporting targeted industries such as advanced transportation, manufacturing, clean energy, and healthcare, the bill aims to propel innovation in sectors that are crucial for the state's economic future. The New Jersey Economic Development Authority will periodically review and update the list of targeted industries, ensuring that credits remain aligned with current economic conditions and priorities.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2487 aims to enhance the financial incentives for corporations engaging in research activities within specific targeted industries in New Jersey. The bill proposes to increase the existing qualified research expenses tax credit from 10% to 15% for businesses primarily involved in targeted sectors. It also seeks to elevate the basic research payments tax credit from 10% to 15% for all corporations. One of the significant changes introduced by A2487 is that it allows the research tax credit to be refundable, enabling businesses to receive payments for unused credits, which is a departure from the previous practice where credits could only be carried forward over several years without cash refunds.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, A2487 could encounter resistance from various stakeholders. Critics may argue that increasing tax credits for certain industries may lead to an imbalanced tax system that favors specific corporate interests at the expense of equitable taxation policies. Furthermore, the refundable nature of the credits could draw scrutiny regarding fiscal responsibility and the implications of such refunds on state revenues. It will be crucial for lawmakers to address these contentions while promoting the overarching goal of fostering innovation and economic growth through supportive fiscal policies.