This bill introduces tax credits for businesses that employ and retain neurodiverse individuals in qualifying roles within the fields of science, technology, engineering, math, or artificial intelligence. Specifically, it allows a corporation business tax credit and a gross income tax credit for wages paid to full-time and part-time qualified neurodiverse employees. The credit amounts are tiered based on the duration of employment, with a maximum of $7,000 for the first year, $8,000 for the second consecutive year, and $9,000 for the third consecutive year and beyond for full-time employees. For part-time employees, the credit is capped at $4,500 per taxable year.
To claim these credits, businesses must apply for certification from the Director of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, who will determine if the employee meets the criteria of a qualified neurodiverse employee. The bill also stipulates that all information related to the certification process must remain confidential, with exceptions for statistical data that does not identify individuals. The Director is tasked with establishing the application process and ensuring timely determinations on applications. The bill is set to take effect immediately and will apply to privilege periods and taxable years beginning on or after January 1 following its enactment.