Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB995

Introduced
5/18/23  

Caption

Providing for the creation of keystone opportunity dairy zones to facilitate the economic development of Pennsylvania's dairy industry; authorizing expenditures; providing tax exemptions, tax deductions, tax abatements and tax credits; creating additional obligations of the Commonwealth and local governmental units; prescribing powers and duties of certain State and local departments, agencies and officials; and imposing penalties.

Impact

If implemented, HB995 is expected to have significant implications for state legislation concerning economic development and taxation in the dairy sector. The bill outlines that these agricultural zones will not just provide tax benefits but also create obligations for local governmental bodies to facilitate the growth of qualified businesses. According to the provisions, for a business to be eligible for these benefits, it must meet specific criteria including investment thresholds and job creation metrics. This could lead to enhanced competition within the state’s dairy market, potentially reshaping Pennsylvania's position in the dairy supply chain.

Summary

House Bill 995 aims to establish Keystone Opportunity Dairy Zones within Pennsylvania to support and stimulate the local dairy industry. By designating specific geographic areas as 'dairy zones', the bill allows qualified businesses within these zones to benefit from various tax incentives, including exemptions, deductions, abatements, and credits. The primary focus of HB995 is to attract investment and improve dairy processing capabilities through encouraging capital investments and job creation, which could lead to economic growth in affected areas.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding HB995 appears to lean towards positivity, particularly among stakeholders in the dairy industry and local governments who are likely to see economic revitalization in rural areas. Proponents argue that the bill addresses critical challenges facing dairy farmers by providing them with the opportunities to expand their operations and stabilize their revenue streams. However, there may be concerns among environmental groups or local opponents about the potential for overreach or unintended consequences from the rapid commercialization of dairy zones.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB995 include the potential challenges in balancing economic gain with environmental considerations and local zoning laws. Critics may argue that the focus on economic incentives could lead to environmental degradation or conflict with community values. Additionally, how local governments implement the tax exemptions and their capacity for managing increased business activity could raise questions about equity and sustainability in planning. Stakeholders will likely continue to discuss these implications in further legislative sessions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

PA HB177

Providing for the creation of keystone opportunity dairy zones to facilitate the economic development of Pennsylvania's dairy industry; authorizing expenditures; providing for tax exemptions, tax deductions, tax abatements and tax credits; creating additional obligations of the Commonwealth and local governmental units; prescribing powers and duties of certain State and local departments, agencies and officials; and imposing penalties.

PA SB384

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