‘Clean Start’ Tax Credit Act Introduced in House

Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) today have introduced the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit Act in the US House of Representatives. The bipartisan legislation would provide a tax credit to businesses helping ensure they are properly cleaned and disinfected as stay-at-home restrictions are lifted and helping prevent further infections from the novel coronavirus.
  
The legislation would create a $25,000 tax credit per location capped at $250,000 per business entity helping businesses defray the unforeseen and increased cleaning costs associated with fighting the coronavirus. The credit would be temporary and could be used to help offset the costs of professional cleaning services, purchasing cleaning products and sanitary-related equipment, as well as training workers on proper cleaning and disinfecting protocols. Qualified expenses would also include personal protective equipment, which are critical to protecting employees and the public.

“COVID-19 is impacting every American,” said Representative LaHood. “As stay-at-home orders begin to ease, businesses and workers are prepared to take unprecedented measures to get their livelihoods back on track. Getting folks back to work is essential to reinvigorating our economy, but it is critical that we ensure the safety of workers and customers to prevent additional outbreaks. This bipartisan legislation will ensure that businesses can take extra precautions during this uncertain time and keep our communities safe.”

“As our economy begins to gradually re-open, responsible business owners will want to do everything possible to safeguard their workers and customers from COVID-19,” said Representative Murphy.  “I am proud to join Congressman LaHood in proposing a temporary tax credit to help businesses afford cleaning services and supplies, which will protect public health and spur economic activity.” 

“We thank Representatives LaHood and Murphy for their strong support of this commonsense legislation to help provide a safe and sanitary environment for workers and customers,” said John H. Barrett, ISSA executive director. “ISSA looks forward to continuing to work with members of the House and Senate to pass a bipartisan stimulus package that includes the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit to give Americans the confidence and peace of mind to safely get back to work and revitalize our economy.”