WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06) introduced legislation to provide businesses with a refundable payroll tax credit for COVID-19 testing. This legislation would cover 50% of the COVID-19 testing costs for companies working to support the health of their employees and is part of the Ways and Means Republican Returning Safely to a Healthy Workplace Agenda. 



“As businesses in Arizona and across the nation continue to face the ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19, it is critical for Congress to pass legislation that will ease the burden on business owners providing testing for their employees in order to support their health and safety,” said Congressman Schweikert. “This tax credit will empower businesses to make expansive testing of their employees possible while helping to support a healthy labor force. Giving our businesses the tools they need to prioritize health and safety in the workplace will allow them to continue to grow and support our economy during these challenging times.” 

“Americans need to see their doctors, go to the store, and work to provide for their families—but they need to do so confidently and safely,” said Ways and Means Republican Leader Kevin Brady. “The Workplace Testing Tax Credit is a key policy in the Ways and Means Republican Returning Safely to a Healthy Workplace Agenda that accomplishes just that. I’m thankful to Rep. Schweikert for introducing this bill.”



“The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry thanks Rep. Schweikert for his work in developing policies that will get America back to work safely,” said Glenn Hamer, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The country’s job creators are ready and willing to partner with the federal government and public health officials in increasing the deployment and availability of tests as we make our way to bringing the economy back to full strength. Rep. Schweikert’s bill will help ease some of the financial burden on businesses as together we seek to ensure a safe, smooth return to the workplace.”

“The Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce applauds Congressman Schweikert for introducing this legislation,” said Betsy LaVoie, President and CEO of the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce. “This testing tax credit would benefit our local business community and workers by providing the resources needed to keep workplaces safe during this pandemic.”



Background



This bill would allow businesses of all sizes to safely continue their operations and prioritize the health of their employees. Businesses would receive a refundable payroll tax credit based on their average number of full-time employees, which would be capped between $250 and $500 per employee depending on the size of the business. The credit is designed to cover 50% of the testing costs incurred by businesses.

This legislation is supported by the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce, and the Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce. 

To read the full text of the legislation, click HERE. 

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