H.R. 7024 / Chamber Supports

The Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024, authored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO-08), was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives last week with a vote of 357-70, following an extensive debate. The legislation received strong support among the Indiana House delegation. Only Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN-03) and Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN-05) voted against the bill.

The legislation contains several pro-business provisions that are supported by the Chamber.

First, the bill includes a temporary restoration of full expensing for domestic research and development investments that will spur innovation and technological advancement. This provision allows businesses to immediately deduct costs associated with research and development, encouraging investment in new technologies and processes.

Second, the retroactive restoration of 100% bonus depreciation will allow businesses to immediately deduct a larger portion of the purchase price of eligible assets and is a powerful incentive for capital investment. This provision provides immediate cash flow relief for businesses.

A third provision that offers a less restrictive limitation on business interest expense is another important aspect of the legislation. By modifying the rules around interest expense deductions, this provision assists businesses in managing their financing costs more effectively. This change is especially beneficial for capital-intensive industries, enabling them to leverage more favorable financial conditions for expansion and growth.

It is important to underscore the temporary nature of these reforms. While they are undoubtedly beneficial in the short term, their limited duration creates a veil of uncertainty for businesses planning long-term investments. The Chamber strongly supports making these reforms permanent, thus providing the business community with the stability and confidence needed to make substantial, long-term investments. Such permanence would not only benefit Indiana’s economy but also contribute significantly to national economic growth.

David Ober is the Indiana Chamber’s vice president of taxation and public finance. Ober, a native of Noble County, started with the Chamber in summer 2022 and is a former state legislator and commissioner for the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.