- By New York State Governor's Office
- Business & Technology
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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced Wednesday the FY 2020 Enacted Budget includes the nation's first Recovery Tax Credit program, which provides tax incentives for certified employers who hire people in recovery from substance use disorders in either full- or part-time positions. Beginning in the year 2020, up to $2 million will be allocated for this program annually, with employers receiving a maximum credit of $2,000 for each eligible person they hire. The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services will administer the program in conjunction with the Department of Taxation and Finance.
"As the opioid epidemic continues to impact families and communities across the state, we remain committed to ensuring individuals who are in recovery have the support they need to lead healthy lives," Cuomo said. "This tax incentive will help remove the stigma surrounding addiction and ensure those battling this disease can create a stable and sustainable path to recovery."
The recovery tax credit will provide eligible employers up to a $2,000 tax credit for each eligible individual who has worked a minimum of 500 hours. In addition to creating a recovery-oriented culture in business and local communities, this tax credit is designed to encourage and accelerate growth across the state by increasing employment opportunities.
An employer that provides a recovery-supportive environment and otherwise meets the program's requirements must apply annually to OASAS to claim the credit for eligible individuals employed during the preceding calendar year. Applications for the first year of the program will be due by January 15, 2021, for eligible individuals employed during the 2020 tax year.
Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services Commissioner Arlene González-Sánchez said, "Steady employment can be vital to successful recovery. With this program, people in recovery will have another avenue to rebuild their lives, while employers have the chance to contribute to the recovery and well-being of their employees and community."
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