Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act

Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act

This bill expands the tax exclusions for energy conservation subsidies to include subsidies provided (directly or indirectly) (1) by a public utility for the purchase or installation of any water conservation or efficiency measure; (2) by a storm water management provider for the purchase or installation of any storm water management measure; or (3) by a state or local government to a resident of such state or locality for the purchase or installation of any wastewater management measure, but only if such measure concerns the taxpayer's principal residence.

Bill 117 HR 4647, also known as the Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to promote water conservation by providing tax incentives for individuals and businesses that invest in water-saving technologies.

If passed, the bill would allow taxpayers to claim a tax credit for 30% of the cost of purchasing and installing water conservation equipment, such as low-flow toilets, water-efficient appliances, and rainwater harvesting systems. This tax credit would be capped at $1,500 per taxpayer per year.

The bill also aims to level the playing field for water conservation rebates by ensuring that these rebates are not subject to federal income tax. Currently, some states offer rebates for water-saving investments, but these rebates are often taxed as income, reducing their effectiveness in incentivizing conservation efforts. Supporters of the bill argue that it will help to reduce water usage, lower utility bills, and promote sustainable practices. They also believe that it will stimulate the economy by encouraging investment in water-saving technologies. Opponents of the bill may argue that it could lead to a loss of tax revenue for the government, or that it unfairly benefits certain industries or individuals. However, the bill has bipartisan support and is seen as a positive step towards promoting water conservation in the United States.