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All four bills from the economic incentive package dubbed the “Game Plan” have passed both chambers of the legislature and have been signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey.
“I am proud the Alabama Legislature has officially passed all four bills in The Game Plan package – my plan for our state’s continued economic success,” Ivey said. “I commend both the Senate and House for their incredible work on this timely legislation that will, no doubt, be transformative for our state and more importantly, for our families. We are creating stability for our economy and are going to keep Alabama winning for many years to come.”
The bills would renew existing economic incentives from the Jobs Act while offering new opportunities to improve site development, support to small businesses, and transparency in the incentive process.
The two bills from the House include HB241 sponsored by Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, and HB247 sponsored by Rep. Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville.
HB241 renews the Jobs Act extending the sunset date to 2028 and increases the act’s incentive cap by $25 million annually over the next 5 years.
HB247 increases support to small businesses in rural areas by establishing a tax credit program designed to spur growth in the state’s innovation economy.
In the Senate, SB165, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, aims to facilitate the development of industry ready sites across Alabama. SB151, sponsored by Sen. Garlan Gudger, will require the Alabama Department of Commerce to publish certain information relating to incentivized projects.
Ranking members from both chambers applauded the passage of the bills including Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed and House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainesville. The two lawmakers provided statements via video here.
While the bills passed there were still a few legislatures who had criticisms, specifically for HB241 and tax credits provided to the tourism business.
Orr spoke on the Senate floor stating it was “repugnant” that the incentives take taxpayer dollars to give out to corporations. Orr added that some of the money being provided in the incentives packages should go towards education and mental health counseling.
“Here we take taxpayer money and dole out to corporations because 49 other states do the same,” Orr said.
The signed bills will go into effect 30 days after their signing.
