Montgomery, AL – The Alabama House has passed a bill that would increase the tax break that small business owners receive if they provide health insurance for their employees.
The bill by Republican Rep. April Weaver of Brierfield would increase the tax deduction employers can claim from 150 percent to 200 percent of the cost of the insurance.
The bill passed the House on an 83-12 vote and now goes to the Senate.
Some Democrats opposed the bill, saying it would reduce the amount of income tax revenue that goes to fund schools.
Weaver said she feels the bill will encourage employers to hire additional workers and increase income tax revenue.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)