NASE News

NASE Supports Small Business Legislation Introduced By Sen. Merkley

NASE Supports Small Business Legislation Introduced By Sen. Merkley

Bill Would Assist Small Businesses With Start-Up Expenses

Washington, D.C., July 8, 2009 -- Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) has introduced legislation, endorsed by the NASE, to encourage job creation and support small business owners by cutting taxes for the start-up costs of small businesses.

The Small Business Jump Start Act of 2009 (S. 1402) is cosponsored by Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and is also endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

“In this difficult economic time it is imperative that we help our nation’s newest entrepreneurs start their business off right,” said Kristie Arslan, Executive Director of the NASE’s Legislative Office. “The Small Business Jump Start Act of 2009 will greatly assist start-up ventures at the most critical time – their first year of business – and give them the financial boost they need to succeed.”

The legislation will increase the small business start-up expenses deduction from $5,000 to $10,000 and increase the threshold for the deduction phase-out from $50,000 to $60,000.

“As our economy begins to recover, small businesses will lead the way,” Sen. Merkley commented. “One of the best ways we can encourage job growth is to help small businesses through their first year. For the majority of small business owners, the first year is the toughest. New entrepreneurs must hire employees, attract clients, start up administrative systems, and find a suitable facility. By doubling the deduction for start-up costs, this new legislation will encourage the job growth that will get our economy moving again.”

The legislation would increase the number of businesses who can claim the entire $10,000 deduction in the first year. If a new small business has over $60,000 in expenses, the first-year deduction is phased out on a dollar for dollar basis. For example, if a start-up company has $61,000 in expenses, they can take a $9,000 deduction in their first year with the remaining $1,000 spread out over the next 15 years, just as in current law.