Revise lead testing, certification, and tax credit law
The bill amends existing sections of the Revised Code to facilitate the issuance of tax credits for lead abatement. The tax commissioner, in collaboration with the director of health, is tasked with establishing the procedures for applying for and issuing the tax credit certificates. The program aims to enhance public health by reducing lead poisoning cases and ensuring that residential units are safe for children, which is essential for the community's overall health and wellbeing. However, it sets a fiscal limit of $5 million for credits issued per fiscal year, placing a cap on program accessibility and potential utilization.
Senate Bill 253 introduces a tax credit related to lead abatement costs for property owners who undertake the removal of lead hazards in eligible dwellings. Specifically, it allows taxpayers who incur lead abatement expenses to apply for a lead abatement tax credit, which can be assigned to lead abatement specialists for discounts on their services. This credit is capped at $10,000 and is designed to incentivize the abatement of hazardous lead materials in residential settings, particularly to protect children and vulnerable populations from lead exposure.
Discussions around SB253 reveal notable points of contention, particularly regarding the funding implications for local governments. The bill requires adjustments to payments made to local governments under the Local Government Fund based on lead certification delays. Critics argue that this could potentially reduce the revenue available to local authorities, affecting their budgets and service delivery. The balancing act between incentivizing lead abatement and ensuring adequate local government funding continues to spark debate among legislators and stakeholders.
Overall, the passage of SB253 represents a proactive step in addressing public health concerns stemming from lead exposure, while simultaneously navigating the complexities of state and local government fiscal relationships. Its successful implementation will depend on how effectively the application process for tax credits can be streamlined and how the financial pressures on local governments can be mitigated, ensuring that both health objectives and local government capabilities are preserved.