New Jersey Senate Bill S1947

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/22
• Refer: 3/3/22

Caption

Provides tax credit under corporation business tax and gross income tax for certain costs incurred in purchase and installation of certain environmentally responsible business equipment.

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to stimulate economic activity by encouraging businesses to invest in greener technologies. By providing financial incentives, the bill aims to mitigate the initial costs that often deter companies from transitioning to more sustainable practices. Furthermore, it ensures that environmental considerations are integrated into commercial operations, aligning with broader state goals of reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainability in economic practices.

Summary

Bill S1947 introduces a tax credit under the corporation business tax and the gross income tax in New Jersey, aimed at incentivizing the purchase and installation of environmentally responsible business equipment. Specifically, the bill allows taxpayers to claim a tax credit equal to 10% of the costs incurred for such equipment, which must be used exclusively within their business operations. To qualify, the equipment should not have been previously used in New Jersey, possess a useful life exceeding one year, and either be powered predominantly by renewable energy or exceed average energy efficiency standards.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its potential environmental benefits, there are concerns regarding the bureaucracy involved in certifying the equipment before eligibility for the credit. The Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection is tasked with certifying the environmentally responsible equipment within 90 days of application. Critics may argue that the administrative processes could be a hindrance, delaying the adoption of eco-friendly technologies among businesses. Moreover, the specificity of qualifying criteria may lead to debates about what constitutes 'environmentally responsible' and whether it effectively supports a diverse range of businesses.