WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2398

Establishing business and occupation and public utility tax credits for small business employers providing maritime trade educational assistance.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Low and 4 co-sponsors

Washington bill creates tax credits for small businesses that fund maritime trade education programs, aiming to address workforce shortages in the maritime industry.

First reading, referred to Finance.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2398

Legislative bill overview

HB 2398 creates business and occupation (B&O) tax credits and public utility tax credits for small business employers who provide educational assistance related to maritime trades. The bill incentivizes private sector participation in workforce development by offering tax relief to qualifying employers who support maritime training and education programs.

Why is this important

Washington's maritime industry faces workforce shortages as skilled workers retire and fewer young people enter the trades. By offering tax credits to employers who invest in maritime education, the bill attempts to address this skills gap while reducing the financial burden on employers who contribute to worker training. This approach leverages private sector resources to support public workforce development goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Tax credits reduce state tax collections; legislators will debate whether the workforce development benefits justify the fiscal cost and whether revenues should be allocated differently
  • Definition of "maritime trades" and "educational assistance": The bill's eligibility criteria need clarification—does this cover only traditional maritime jobs, or broader water-based industries? What types of assistance qualify?
  • Small business threshold: The definition of "small business" is critical; if set too broadly, larger corporations could benefit, while if too narrow, it may exclude businesses with genuine workforce needs

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

Sign in to ask a question.