Lowering Energy Costs for Manufactured Homeowners Act
Impact
The bill specifically addresses the needs of manufactured home residents who often face higher energy costs due to inadequate home skirting. By providing a financial incentive for homeowners to install weather-resistant skirting, the legislation is positioned to potentially lower energy consumption and strengthen homes against environmental factors. Moreover, the credit applies only to those with modified adjusted gross incomes below specified thresholds—$300,000 for joint filers and $150,000 for single filers—making it accessible to many working families. The capped credit of $500 ensures that the benefit is substantial enough to encourage participation without overwhelming the tax system.
Summary
House Bill 9935, titled the 'Lowering Energy Costs for Manufactured Homeowners Act', seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code to create a refundable tax credit for the installation of skirting on qualifying manufactured homes. This tax credit will be set at 20 percent of the expenses incurred for skirting, aimed at alleviating financial burdens faced by the owners of manufactured homes, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. The provision intends to encourage homeowners to enhance energy efficiency and home durability through the addition of necessary structural features.
Contention
While HB9935 aims to facilitate home improvements for manufactured homeowners, there are points of contention regarding its implementation. Critics argue that the income limits may exclude many deserving individuals who need assistance but earn just above the threshold. Others express concerns about the long-term viability of such tax credits and whether they would lead to sustainable energy savings or merely serve as temporary relief. Furthermore, there are debates as to whether incentivizing skirting installation effectively addresses broader issues related to the safety and insulation of manufactured homes.
Notable_points
Overall, the 'Lowering Energy Costs for Manufactured Homeowners Act' reflects an effort to recognize and support a segment of the housing market that is often underappreciated. By focusing both on tax incentives and the structural integrity of homes, the bill seeks to balance immediate financial relief with the goal of promoting long-term energy efficiency. The outcomes of this legislation could influence future housing policies and set a precedent for how tax credits may be used effectively to enhance living conditions for vulnerable populations.
Relative to tenant and contract manufacturers of beer, wine, and liquor; allowing pharmacists to administer influenza, COVID-19, and other FDA licensed vaccines without explicit approval from the general court; and, restricting the purchase of real property on or around military installations.