Committee OKs tax-credit timing changes and higher park fees for nonresidents

The Ways and Means Committee voted to adopt two amendments addressing tax incentives and park fees. Amendment 1540S modifies the sponsor's underlying tax-credit measure: it implements immediate technical changes to current credits while postponing a proposed $10 million increase until the next biennium to avoid immediate fiscal risk. Sponsors said the change preserves a path for growth while limiting near-term budget exposure and discussed adding fiscal triggers.

Amendment 1541S updates park-fee policy to charge higher fees for out-of-state visitors, a change sponsors said would raise more than $2 million for the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and align state practice with neighboring states. Supporters argued the change helps cover deferred maintenance and that it is straightforward to administer.

Both amendments passed by voice vote; the underlying bill was advanced as amended. Several senators emphasized caution about future fiscal triggers and left technical refinements to floor consideration.