An income tax exemption for cash tips paid to an employee. (FE)
Impact
If enacted, AB38 would amend the state statutes pertaining to income tax calculation to incorporate specific provisions for cash tips. The legislation is expected to benefit a substantial number of employees in sectors such as hospitality and personal services where cash tips constitute a major part of their earnings. This exemption could lead to a reduction in overall tax liabilities for those employees, enhancing their disposable income and potentially contributing to increased consumer spending in the economy.
Summary
Assembly Bill 38 introduces an income tax exemption specifically for cash tips received by employees from their customers. This legislative measure aims to alleviate the tax burden on employees who rely on tips as a significant source of income. The bill amends existing tax statutes to formally recognize cash tips as exempt from state income tax, distinguishing them from other forms of income that are typically taxable. By focusing on tips, the bill seeks to provide financial relief to employees in the service industry, where tipping is customary.
Contention
As with many tax-related legislative proposals, AB38 could face scrutiny and debate among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents may argue that this exemption is a necessary response to the financial realities faced by tip-reliant workers, promoting fairness in tax policy. However, critics might raise concerns about the implications for state revenue since the exemption could reduce tax income. There might also be discussions around the enforcement and mechanics of how such tips are reported and exempted, particularly in ensuring that the measure does not inadvertently encourage underreporting of income.
Creating an employee ownership conversion costs tax credit, a deduction for capital gains from the transfer of a business to employee ownership, and an employee ownership education and outreach program. (FE)
Creating an employee ownership conversion costs tax credit, a deduction for capital gains from the transfer of a business to employee ownership, and an employee ownership education and outreach program. (FE)