Bill Analysis: House Bill 439 (LC 37 1964ERS)
House Bill 439 proposes a costly new tax break called the Georgia New Markets credit that would drain state coffers when lawmakers already struggle to find enough revenue for transportation, education and other vital needs. The goal of the credit is to increase private investment in low-income communities, but it’s doubtful the program is a sound way to do that. The experiences of other states that experimented with the model raise serious concerns about its effectiveness and accountability. And the high cost of the credit would divert state money from schools, hospitals and other investments critical to Georgia businesses and families. Download the bill analysis.
