Excludes paraffin used in manufacture of candles from petroleum products gross receipts tax.
Impact
If enacted, A3402 would exempt paraffin from being taxed under the petroleum products gross receipts tax, which currently imposes a tax on raw materials utilized in candle production. This legislative change is expected to enhance the viability of local candle manufacturers by reducing the cost of production, fostering an environment where they can compete evenly against their counterparts from states with no such taxes or foreign manufacturers who benefit from lower costs.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3402 proposes an amendment to New Jersey's current petroleum products gross receipts tax by excluding paraffin used in the manufacture of candles. The goal of this bill is to eliminate the tax burden on New Jersey candle manufacturers, who suffer from competitive disadvantages compared to manufacturers in other states and countries, particularly China. As the market for home décor candles has grown, this bill aims to bolster local manufacturing and preserve jobs in the state.
Contention
Debate around A3402 may arise concerning the implications of tax exemptions on state revenue and how such measures could entice other manufacturing sectors to seek similar exemptions. Some legislators might argue that this bill leads to potential losses in tax revenue, while proponents will likely highlight the long-term benefits of job preservation in New Jersey's candle manufacturing industry. The historical context of foreign competition and national trade policies may also influence discussions, as the federal antidumping duty against China's candle products has been a critical factor in this sector.
Requires Petroleum Products Gross Receipts Tax rate reduction if certain Legislative action is taken that includes increases in other State tax rates and revenue; dedicates revenues from certain sales and use tax increases to "Transportation Trust Fund Account."
An Act Concerning The Interest Paid By The State On Overpayments Of Taxes, Various Changes To Tax Credit Programs Available Under The Insurance Premiums Tax And The Corporation Business Tax, Exemptions From The Petroleum Products Gross Receipts Tax, And A Study Of The Structure Of The Personal Income Tax.
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