CA Senate considers altering enterprise zone program

The state Senate is poised to vote on a modified version of Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposal to revamp the state’s enterprise zone program.

Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg scheduled a vote late Tuesday on AB93, which requires two-thirds votes in each house. The bill would redirect $750 million in business tax credits by using the money on three economic development programs.

Those include a sales tax exemption on manufacturing equipment, a credit for hiring unemployed workers and veterans, and a tax credit to encourage businesses to boost jobs.

Brown has been pushing for two years to eliminate the enterprise zone program, which he has called wasteful and inefficient. While labor and some businesses support his proposal, the bill is being opposed by cities and the California Chamber of Commerce.