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Bailey amendment favors job
creation in Island County
State
Rep. Barbara Bailey,
R-Oak Harbor, supports an amendment to include Island County in critical
economic development legislation approved today by the state House of
Representatives. House Bill 2689 extends an expiring tax-incentive plan
designed to attract high-tech jobs and investments to rural counties of
Washington.
“I’ve said time and time again that we must do everything we can to
support job providers and create new employment opportunities for more
people in Washington,” said Bailey. “By renewing and extending tax
incentives for rural communities, we give them the help they need to
bring jobs home and create prosperity.”
Tax breaks designed to spur economic development in rural counties were
set to expire this year. HB 2689 would extend B&O tax credits for
high-tech call centers and software manufacturing facilities located in
rural or distressed areas of Washington.
“This legislation ensures
the vitality of employers, such as call centers, that are currently in
Island County and those that would like to relocate here,” continued
Bailey.
It would also continue a sales and use tax deferral for manufacturing,
research and development, or computer programming activities in rural
counties. Under the bill, both tax incentives would be extended until
2010.
Other aspects of the legislation including tying tax benefits to new
local jobs for the sales and use tax incentives. Employers must also be
willing to disclose any actual tax savings realized so the state can
track results of the legislation.
The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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