In The News

A bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, would create a tax credit for businesses who increase wages for essential workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

Huizenga introduced House Resolution 6629, the Patriot Bonus Tax Credit Act, in the House of Representatives on Thursday, April 30.

The legislation would allow the federal government to dole out refundable tax credits to businesses and employers that create wage increases for essential employees, be it a direct wage increase, salary increase or bonus.

“All across America, truck drivers are delivering supplies, grocery store employees are stocking shelves, and sanitation workers are helping keep our communities clean,” Huizenga said in a statement. “These individuals are just a sample of those who have answered the call during this unprecedented time in our nation’s history.

“The Patriot Bonus incentivizes pay raises and bonuses for essential employees. If the government is going to ask or in some cases require citizens to stay home, those who provide essential services should be rewarded.”

The tax credit would be for half the value of increased wages. For example, if an employer gave employees a $100 bonus, they would be eligibe for a $50 tax credit.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Huizenga also previously introduced a bill to create a tax holiday for essential workers. The HEROES Act would put a four-month hold on federal income taxes for any employees working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis.

This article originally appeared in the Holland Sentinel on May 4, 2020.