New markets tax credit established, report required, and money appropriated.
Impact
If enacted, HF2360 would alter existing Minnesota tax laws by introducing provisions for a new markets tax credit, specifically outlined in the proposed Minnesota Statutes, chapter 116Y. The legislation would facilitate significant capital flow into low-income communities by incentivizing investors with tax credits to fund local enterprises. This could lead to broader economic benefits, including increased employment rates as new businesses establish operations in areas that need revitalization.
Summary
House File 2360, known as the New Markets Tax Credit Act, aims to establish a tax credit program designed to encourage investments in low-income communities within Minnesota. The proposed legislation outlines the criteria for qualified equity investments and the benefits to investors, including tax credits based on the amount invested in community development projects. The bill is designed to stimulate economic growth in underprivileged areas by creating investment opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable, fostering business development, and encouraging job creation.
Contention
There may be points of contention surrounding HF2360 regarding how effectively the tax credits translate into tangible benefits for low-income communities. Critics might question the bill's potential to prioritize financial gains for investors over meaningful improvements in community welfare or whether the measures effectively delineate how funds are utilized within these communities. Additionally, concerns regarding transparency and data disclosure associated with the program's administration could emerge, as the bill proposes certain disclosures of individual data to better manage program compliance.
Housing; prior appropriations modified, new programs established and existing programs modified, housing infrastructure bond eligible uses expanded, housing infrastructure bond issuance authorized, working group and task force established, reports required, and money appropriated.
Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority established to provide financing and leverage private investment for clean energy and other projects, report required, and money appropriated.
Revenue-neutral assessment on environmental emissions provided, refundable FICA and property tax credits provided, credits against income taxes required to be paid as dividends, energy efficiency and renewable energy project loans authorized, and money appropriated.
Property tax provisions modified, property classifications and class rates modified, reports required, transition aid authorized, and money appropriated.
Advance payment of the education credit established, education credit assignments disallowed, and report on delivering advance payments using an electronic benefits transfer card required.