SB 5111-S2.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Finds that targeting tax incentives to focus on key growth industries is an important strategy to enhance the state's business climate.

Declares that it is of great concern that businesses in this industry have been increasingly expanding and relocating their operations elsewhere. The report indicates that additional incentives for the solar electric industry are needed in recognition of the unique forces and issues involved in business decisions in this industry.

Declares an intent to enact comprehensive tax incentives for the solar electric industry that address activities of the manufacture of these products and to encourage these industries to locate in Washington state.

Finds that accountability and effectiveness are important aspects of setting tax policy. In order to make policy choices regarding the best use of limited state resources the legislature needs information on how a tax incentive is used.

Requires a person who reports taxes under this act to make an annual report to the department detailing employment, wages, and employer-provided health and retirement benefits per job at the manufacturing site.

Provides that, using existing sources of information, the department shall report to the house appropriations committee, the house committee dealing with energy issues, the senate committee on ways and means, and the senate committee dealing with energy issues by December 1, 2013. The report shall measure the impacts of this act, including the total number of solar energy system manufacturing companies in the state, any change in the number of solar energy system manufacturing companies in the state, and, where relevant, the effect on job creation, the number of jobs created for Washington residents, and any other factors the department selects.