At a press conference held earlier this week (podcast available) Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty announced a "Green Jobs Investment Initiative" for the 2009 legislative session. This initiative includes:
- New tax-free incentives through a “Green JOBZ” program that will provide the same tax exemptions found in the state’s JOBZ program to qualifying green job projects
- A new Job Growth Investment Tax Credit, 50 percent of which will be targeted to green job projects that will promote the state’s renewable energy goals ($20 million)
- A new Small Business Investment Tax Credit for investments in qualified Minnesota businesses, 50 percent of which will be targeted to green job projects ($60 million)
- Incentives to expand the production and infrastructure for biomethane, solar and other renewable energy projects
- Creation of a clean and green technology category as part of the Minnesota Cup competition to reward innovation and spark invention
- Tracking energy usage by state government and holding government accountable for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution
Further details on these proposals are available here.
“The development of green jobs will be one of the biggest changes in our economy since the industrial revolution,” Governor Pawlenty said. “The proposals we are announcing today will fuel job growth by incentivizing new technology and innovation.”
According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, approximately 15,000 Minnesotans work in green jobs.
For more information:
- Governor Pawlenty Unveils "Green Jobs Investment Initiative" (November 10, 2008)
- Press conference podcast (right-click to download MP3)