Kilmer's first bills zero in on job creation

Freshman 26th District Rep. Derek Kilmer has introduced a pair of bills designed to improve the economy and support small businesses in Kitsap County.

One bill provides a tax credit for small businesses that create jobs, the other doubles the revenue exempt from excise taxes.

“The first legislation I introduced, House Bill 1351, was also a key piece of my economic development agenda – a tax credit for small businesses that create jobs,” Kilmer said. “I’m very happy the bill has received support from many members on both sides of the aisle, both Democrats and Republicans. It shows what we can do when we work together to bring relief to working families.”

One of Kilmer’s campaign platforms was job creation. He repeatedly said during his campaign that he believes the best social service is a job.

“I think we’re at a critical stage in the state of Washington,” Kilmer said in September.

Jobs are still at the top of Kilmer’s priority list. Serving as a business retention manager for the Economic Development Board of Tacoma-Pierce County, Kilmer said that after meeting with over 200 business owners last year, Kilmer said he was shocked to learn the biggest problem facing area businesses is actually a lack of qualified workers.

“The bill would provide a Business and Occupation (B&O) tax credit to small businesses for every new job they create that pays a livable wage and provides health benefits,” Kilmer explained. “Communities in Pierce and Kitsap Counties are very reliant on the success of our small businesses. This is a way to help them grow and succeed.”

Kilmer has also introduced House Bill 1442, which doubles the amount of revenue that is exempt from excise taxes for small businesses.

“This will help our small businesses by relieving the initial tax burden on them,” Kilmer said.

According to Kilmer, 1442 has received bipartisan support as well. Both bills were heard in public hearings Friday.

For more information visit www.leg.wa.gov. Kilmer will also begin giving a “Legislative update” airing on BKAT (Channel 12 in Bremerton; Channel 3 in Port Orchard and unincorporated Kitsap County).

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