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Delaware's Proposal to Decouple from OBBBA: What It Means for Innovation

Update What Delaware's Decoupling Proposal Means for Local Businesses As Delaware Governor Matt Meyer calls for a special session to consider decoupling from provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), local businesses are left wondering how this will impact their growth and competitiveness. The proposed move to eliminate immediate expensing of research and development costs could place additional strain on companies trying to innovate in a tough economic climate. Unpacking the Full Expensing Debate The concept of full expensing and immediate deduction of R&D costs has been a cornerstone of the federal tax code since 1954. This change allows businesses to quickly reinvest in new technologies and equipment, boosting productivity and supporting job creation. Without these provisions, Delaware risks becoming less appealing to businesses focused on cutting-edge innovations. Governor Meyer cites a projected revenue shortfall as justification for the proposal, but it may indeed dissuade businesses from investing in the state. The Long-Term Costs of Short-Term Gains While Meyer argues for immediate fiscal responsibility, the broader implications of this decoupling could be detrimental. Immediate expensing supports a dynamic economy, encourages R&D investments, and ultimately leads to higher revenues through economic activity. A temporary focus on budget shortfalls might blind Delaware’s leaders to the substantial long-term economic benefits that accompany a stable and innovation-friendly tax environment. Historical Context: Delaware's Tax Competitiveness Delaware’s ranking in the Tax Foundation's State Tax Competitiveness Index has dropped recently, raising concerns about its attractiveness to businesses. Currently sitting at 24th, the state has the opportunity to reverse this trend by remaining aligned with federal provisions that support business development. By decoupling, Delaware risks losing its edge over neighboring states that offer more favorable tax conditions. Encouraging Innovation in the Face of Adversity Innovation is the backbone of economic growth. Eliminating immediate expensing for R&D could significantly hamper the capabilities of local firms, especially smaller entities that rely on quick returns to fund their projects. As competition intensifies for a limited pool of researchers and funding, Delaware’s economic fabric could fray if policymakers don’t carefully reconsider this proposal. What's Next? A Call to Action for Stakeholders As discussions unfold in Delaware, it’s crucial for business owners, entrepreneurs, and locals to voice their concerns over the implications of this potential decoupling. Engaging with policymakers and advocating for a tax regime that supports innovation could foster a more sustainable economic environment. The discourse on taxes and their impact on businesses should not only focus on immediate financial implications but also incorporate the long-term growth potential of a vibrant, innovation-driven economy.