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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Mike Hanna |
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Hanna introduces tax credit bill for businesses near I-80
Conklin co-sponsoring legislation that would aid area
HARRISBURG, Jan. 14 – State Rep. Mike Hanna, D-Clinton/Centre, is introducing legislation that would aid businesses impacted by the planned conversion of Interstate 80 into a toll road. The state enacted legislation (Act 44 of 2007) last year, which Hanna voted against, that would raise revenue for the state’s transportation needs in part by tolling Interstate 80.
Under Hanna’s bill, businesses impacted by the tolling plan would have the option to apply for an economic development tax credit through the state Department of Community and Economic Development.
The tax credit would neutralize the additional expenses that businesses along
Interstate 80 would face if they had to pay tolls as part of the cost of
shipping and receiving goods.
“Imposing tolls on I-80 could affect the growth of these businesses, but the tax credit would help them remain stable and improve the chances of bringing additional business to the area,” Hanna said. “We’ve been working hard to foster economic development in the region and need to support local businesses as much as possible.”
“Paying daily tolls to transport their goods could cause a lot of businesses to consider moving elsewhere and keep new companies from setting up shop in our region.”
State Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre, co-sponsored the legislation.
“Providing tax credits for toll expenditures would protect local businesses and provide a brighter outlook for future development,” Conklin said. “It’s a common-sense proposal because some businesses, especially those that use shipping and receiving, could be hammered by the new tolls.”
Following Act 44’s passage, Pennsylvania submitted an action plan to the federal government requesting permission to carry out the tolling. While there is no guarantee of approval, Hanna and Conklin want to ensure that businesses located along I-80 would not suffer if the federal government authorizes the plan. In the meantime, both lawmakers are working with state and federal government officials to repeal or alter Act 44.
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CONTACT: Victoria L.
Stanish
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