Economic Incentive Repeal
The proposed repeal of these economic incentives is expected to have significant implications for state law regarding business taxation and economic development. By removing these benefits, the bill signals a potential shift in the state’s approach to attracting major investments from professional sports organizations. The jobs tax credits contained within the original act were designed to provide competitive advantages to companies in terms of hiring and expansion, thus, their removal may lead to diminished interest from similar enterprises considering establishing operations in South Carolina.
Bill S0206 proposes to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws specifically to repeal the economic incentives established under Act 83 of 2019, aimed at supporting the proposed Carolina Panthers practice facility in York County. This legislation seeks to eliminate the additional financial benefits that were set in place to encourage the development of the facility and the creation of jobs associated with it. Such incentives included tax credits aimed at stimulating local economic growth through the establishment of new facilities by professional sports teams and related businesses.
Debate surrounding S0206 is likely to center upon the balance between local economic development and the effective use of state resources. Supporters of the repeal may argue that the original incentives were excessive and not suitable for taxpayers, emphasizing a need for fiscal responsibility. Conversely, opponents, including local government officials and economic advocates, could argue that the withdraw of these incentives is detrimental to local job creation and economic vitality, particularly in counties like York, which may rely heavily on the successful establishment of the Panthers facility for job opportunities and community reinvestment.