This bill introduces tax credits for businesses that employ and retain neurodiverse individuals in qualifying roles within the fields of science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), or artificial intelligence. Specifically, it allows taxpayers to claim a credit against corporation business tax and gross income tax for wages paid to full-time or part-time qualified neurodiverse employees. The credit amount increases based on the number of consecutive years the employee is retained, starting at $7,000 for the first year, $8,000 for the second, and $9,000 for the third and subsequent years for full-time employees. For part-time employees, the credit is capped at $4,500 per employee per year.

To qualify for these credits, businesses must submit an application to the Director of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, who will certify the employee's status as a qualified neurodiverse individual. The bill also outlines the process for application review and certification, ensuring that personal health information remains confidential. Additionally, it specifies that the total credits claimed cannot reduce tax liability below a statutory minimum and allows for unused credits to be carried forward for up to seven years. The bill is set to take effect immediately, applying to tax periods beginning after January 1 following its enactment.