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SB 1244

Research and Development Tax Credit

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alexis Calatayud

Florida bill establishing R&D tax credit to incentivize business research investment died in committee after initial favorable review.

Died in Finance and Tax
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Bill Summary · SB 1244

Legislative bill overview

SB 1244 proposes to establish or expand a research and development (R&D) tax credit in Florida to incentivize businesses to conduct qualifying research activities within the state. The bill aims to make Florida more competitive for tech, biotech, and innovation-based companies by reducing their tax burden on R&D investments.

Why is this important

R&D tax credits are a major economic development tool used by states to attract high-value companies and create skilled jobs in innovation sectors. Florida's competitiveness in attracting tech talent and research-intensive industries depends partly on favorable tax treatment compared to other states offering similar incentives.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state revenue: R&D tax credits reduce government tax collections, requiring either budget cuts elsewhere, tax increases on other groups, or acceptance of lower revenue—with unclear ROI on whether companies actually relocate or expand because of the credit
  • Definition of qualifying R&D: Determining what counts as legitimate research versus routine business activities is complex and subject to abuse or costly administration
  • Equity concerns: Tax credits primarily benefit profitable corporations and may disproportionately favor certain industries (tech, biotech) while other sectors and small businesses see less benefit

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

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