STATEHOUSE (Jan. 27, 2022) – Indiana House Republicans advanced a responsible and sweeping tax cut package that could put over $1.3 billion back in Hoosiers' pockets, according to State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne), co-author of House Bill 1002.
The state's budget reserves are expected to hit a record $5 billion at the end of fiscal year 2022. Judy said if House Bill 1002 becomes law, it would be the largest tax cut in state history.
"Despite the pandemic, Indiana is in an incredible financial position thanks to years of strong leadership," said Judy, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "We continue to live within our means, pay down debt and invest in the future, and now we're facing over $5 billion in reserves. The right thing to do now is to make sure we put money back in Hoosiers' pockets and not grow government. This is a responsible and prudent tax cut plan that rewards hardworking Hoosiers and businesses during a time when they need it most."
Judy said the bill would deliver direct relief to working Hoosiers by phasing down Indiana’s individual income tax from 3.23% today to 3% by 2026. If passed, Hoosiers would also pay less on their utility bills with the elimination of the 1.4% Utility Receipts Tax, which would take effect in July. Currently, individuals and businesses pay the Utility Receipts Tax on their monthly electric, natural gas, water, steam, sewage and telecommunications bills.
About 4.3 million Hoosier taxpayers are set to receive a $125 refund after they file their taxes in 2022 due to higher-than-expected state revenue numbers during the 2021 fiscal year. House Bill 1002 would help streamline this process and ensure about another 900,000 taxpayers also receive a refund.
Judy said the bill would also encourage new investments by lowering Indiana’s business personal property taxes while ensuring homeowners and schools aren’t negatively impacted by the reduction in revenue. Specifically, the bill eliminates the 30% depreciation floor for newly purchased business personal property starting in January and creates a state income tax credit to offset a portion of the personal property taxes paid on existing equipment. Under current law, businesses pay a tax based on a minimum of 30% of the original purchase price of their business personal property, regardless of the age or the true tax value of the equipment. House Bill 1002 would also exempt more manufacturing and agricultural production inputs from the 7% state sales tax to avoid sales tax pyramiding.
"Indiana is a manufacturing and agricultural powerhouse, and these businesses want to make investments in new equipment and technology to expand and stay competitive," Judy said. "These tax cuts could be a game changer by encouraging existing businesses to stay here and grow here in addition to attracting new job creators to our state."
Judy said Indiana has paid down well over $1 billion in debt over the last year alone.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on House Bill 1002, which now moves to the Indiana Senate for further consideration.
-30-
State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) represents House District 83,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
