Signed by Governor Bill Ritter, Jr.

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes a tax credit for employers that create at least 20 new jobs, or 5 jobs in a designated rural enhanced enterprise zone, that is equal to up to 50 percent of the total estimated tax imposed on the employer for the new employees, as determined by the Colorado Economic Development Commission, for taxable years beginning January 1, 2009 through January 1, 2015.

Highlights:

-Requires the new jobs created by the employer to provide for an average yearly wage of at least 110 percent of the average yearly wage of the county or enhanced rural enhanced enterprise zone in which the employer is located (Sec. 1). -Require the new jobs created by the employer to result in the retention of any new employee for at least 1 year (Sec. 1). -Requires employers applying for the credit to document to the Colorado Economic Development Commission that the jobs would not be created without the tax credit, including information that indicates the following (Sec. 1):

-That the jobs could reasonably and efficiently be located outside of the state; -That at least 1 other state is being considered; -That the credit is a major factor in the employers decision to establish the jobs in Colorado; and -That without the credit, the employer is not likely to establish the jobs in Colorado.

-Authorizes the Colorado Economic Development Commission to offer conditional approval to an employer for a tax credit awarded on an annual basis, provided that the employer meets specific criteria (Sec. 1). -Specifies that if the employer receiving the credit is a partnership, limited liability company, S corporation, or similar pass-through entity, the credit may be allocated among its partners, shareholders, members, or other constituent taxpayers (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text