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Bill

Bill

SB 61

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A VOLUNTARY EMPLOYER PAYROLL TAX AND A PERSONAL INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR CERTAIN EMPLOYEES.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Paul Honig

Connecticut bill establishes optional employer payroll tax with corresponding employee income tax credits, allowing voluntary business participation in funding mechanism.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Finance, Revenue and Bonding
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Bill Summary · SB 61

Legislative bill overview

SB 61 proposes establishing a voluntary payroll tax on employers coupled with a personal income tax credit for eligible employees. The bill creates an optional mechanism where employers can contribute to a fund, with corresponding tax relief provided to participating workers. This represents a voluntary alternative to mandatory tax structures, allowing employer participation at their discretion.

Why is this important

This bill could affect Connecticut's tax competitiveness and employee compensation structures. It attempts to balance employer flexibility with worker tax relief, potentially influencing business location decisions and worker take-home pay. The voluntary nature means outcomes depend entirely on employer participation rates, which will determine whether the program achieves meaningful impact.

Potential points of contention

  • Participation uncertainty: Voluntary employer participation may be insufficient to generate substantial revenue or provide meaningful employee tax credits, limiting the program's effectiveness
  • Tax equity concerns: Employees of non-participating employers receive no benefits, creating disparities based on employer choice rather than individual circumstances
  • Administrative complexity: Tracking voluntary contributions, verifying eligibility, and processing credits across multiple employers increases bureaucratic burden for both state revenue agencies and businesses
  • Revenue predictability: Legislators cannot reliably forecast funding levels since participation is discretionary, complicating budget planning

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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