Passage of Solar Panel Tax Fairness Bill Right Step for Michigan
MCEF Praises Passage of Rep. Tom Barrett’s House Bills 5143 & 5680
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Conservative Energy Forum (MCEF) today applauded the passage of House Bills 5143 and 5680 in the Michigan House of Representatives on Tuesday. HB 5143 and 5680, introduced by State Representative Tom Barrett (R-Potterville), will make investments in residential and small-scale solar energy equitable under the tax code, treating the addition of solar panels on residential property the same as installing a back-up generator or high efficiency furnace. Solar installations would not be taxed under Michigan’s personal property tax but would be added to the residential property’s market value at the time of sale. The bills were passed by votes of 106-3 and 105-4, respectively.
“Residential and small-scale investments in solar generation to offset one’s own energy consumption should not be taxed as a business or commercial venture,” said Ed Rivet, executive director of MCEF. “Our tax policies should encourage, not penalize, individual investments that reduce demand on the electrical grid while simultaneously promoting cleaner energy generation. These sorts of investments spur local jobs and the economy, while helping to conserve our environment – all benefits for our communities and our state.”
MCEF also offered its appreciation to State Representative Tom Barrett for his leadership in bringing the legislation forward. “We want to thank Rep. Tom Barrett for sponsoring this package of bills. Taxpayers and clean energy entrepreneurs have a friend in Barrett,” Rivet added.
MCEF will be advocating for the legislation to be taken up promptly in the Michigan Senate after the summer recess.
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About MCEF: The Michigan Conservative Energy Forum is an organization comprised of conservatives who believe that Michigan should adopt a true “All of the Above” energy policy that includes an increase in our commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency. MCEF believes encouraging diverse and clean energy production and reduced energy waste will create jobs and stimulate Michigan’s economy, reduce our reliance on foreign energy, improve our national security, and protect our valuable natural resources. http://www.micef.org/