MACo Legislative Director Kevin Kinnally yesterday submitted testimony to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee in support of SB 722 Small Business COVID-19 Relief Act of 2021 with amendments.

Counties support SB 772’s strong commitment to delivering meaningful relief to small businesses hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic but are concerned about the bill’s carryover fiscal effects, which would undermine county revenues and support for schools, public health, public safety, and other essential community services – including those most critical during this crisis itself.

From the MACo Testimony:

The swift and unprecedented shock of the COVID-19 public health crisis has also wreaked havoc on the economy. County governments are not only the front lines for public health and safety during these challenging times, they also face revenue shortfalls from the drop in central funding sources. As the focus shifts to restoring our state and local economies in a manner that is safe, equitable, and prosperous for all, counties are eager and committed partners in promoting economic growth and creating opportunity – we prefer local autonomy in determining the best way locally.

State proposals that involve local revenue sources can be enacted as “local option” offerings, to allow counties maximum flexibility to achieve local goals. MACo urges the Committee to primarily consider state income tax credits as the best means to incorporate local tax relief as part of a broader policy.

Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2021 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database.