Budget & Taxes (Tax Credits)

HB 5517 creates a $0.005 per returnable beverage container tax credit for distributors who charge a deposit on containers, effective for tax years beginning January 1, 2026. The credit adjusts annually based on the U.S. Consumer Price Index starting in 2027. Distributors must attach a specific report (per 1976 IL 1) with their tax return to claim the credit, and any excess credit is refunded. This directly affects beverage distributors handling returnable containers in Michigan.

HB 5292 allows corporations with pre-2012 approved tax credits (for job creation or investment) to claim the remaining unused portion against their corporate income tax liability starting in 2026, spread equally over 10 years. To qualify, businesses must maintain at least 95% of their full-time jobs (35+ hours weekly with payroll taxes withheld) as of September 30, 2025, each tax year. The bill also repeals Michigan’s Business Tax Act (2007 PA 36) for tax years beginning after December 31, 2025, ending that separate tax system. This directly affects corporations holding unused credits from older economic development programs.