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Bill

HB 5014

AN ACT ESTABLISHING AN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY APPRENTICESHIP TAX CREDIT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Craig Fishbein and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut tax credit bill incentivizes employers to hire IT apprentices, aiming to build tech workforce while reducing business taxes through state revenue reduction.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Finance, Revenue and Bonding
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Bill Summary · HB 5014

Legislative bill overview

HB 5014 would establish a tax credit for businesses in Connecticut that participate in information technology apprenticeship programs. The bill incentivizes employers to hire and train apprentices in IT-related fields by providing financial relief through the state's tax system. This aims to address workforce development needs in the technology sector while reducing the tax burden on participating employers.

Why is this important

Connecticut faces competition from other states to retain and attract tech talent, and apprenticeships are viewed as a cost-effective pathway to build a skilled workforce without requiring traditional four-year degrees. By using tax credits, the state hopes to encourage small and mid-sized businesses—which may lack formal training infrastructure—to participate in developing IT professionals. This could reduce skills gaps in the tech industry while providing employment opportunities for residents seeking alternatives to traditional college education.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state revenue: The fiscal impact of the tax credit is unclear; depending on participation rates and credit amounts, this could represent significant foregone tax revenue without guaranteed ROI for the state
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: The bill's text (not provided) likely needs clear parameters on what constitutes qualifying IT apprenticeships, approved training programs, and which business sizes/types are eligible, potentially creating enforcement challenges
  • Equity concerns: Without careful design, tax credits may disproportionately benefit larger corporations over small businesses, or concentrate benefits in certain geographic regions of Connecticut where tech industries cluster

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

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