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Committee advances $4,000 disaster purchase tax credit for homeowners rebuilding after fires
Summary
SB 13 43 would allow an income tax credit up to $4,000 per disaster for a portion of sales tax paid on furniture and appliances bought to furnish a primary residence after a governor‑declared disaster; the bill passed as amended to Appropriations amid concerns about administration and equity.
Sen. Ben Allen presented SB 13 43 on behalf of a joint author, describing the bill as relief for homeowners who lost property in destructive wildfires. The measure provides an income tax credit of up to $4,000 per disaster for the portion of sales tax paid on furniture and appliances purchased to furnish a rebuilt primary residence within three years of the disaster, with a five‑year carryover period for claimants whose tax liability is insufficient to use the credit in one year.
Allen framed the credit as targeted relief for households that must replace essential household items after losing everything. He and his coauthors said the credit is limited to primary residences and caps eligible item prices to avoid subsidizing luxury purchases.
Michelle Warshaw of the teachers' association registered respectful opposition on the record but did not elaborate. Committee members discussed affordability and administration but expressed support for helping disaster victims. The bill was passed as amended to the Committee on Appropriations (recorded tally: 4 yes, 0 no).
Next steps: SB 13 43 will proceed to Appropriations; sponsors said the measure is intended to provide tangible tax relief to disaster survivors while limiting program abuse.
