Sacramento, Calif. – Late Friday evening, California Governor Gavin Newsom returned AB 52 (Grayson) to the Legislature without his signature. This bill would have provided an investment tax credit for the purchase of manufacturing equipment.

In his veto message, Governor Newsom stated this bill would have a significant impact on the state general fund and should be considered in the annual budget process.

California Manufacturers & Technology Association CEO and President Lance Hastings released this statement in response to the veto:

“On behalf of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, the 30,000 manufacturers and 1.3 million workers in the sector, we are extremely disappointed in Governor Newsom for not supporting this much-needed legislation after it was passed unanimously by both houses of the Legislature. This is the second time he has vetoed a manufacturer’s investment tax credit within the last two years and over that time we have sought to work with the Administration to highlight, promote, and expand manufacturing in California. His veto sends a strong and daunting signal to the rest of the country – and world – that manufacturing is not an economic priority in California.

 

By not aligning with 38 other states that already provide similar investment credits for manufacturers, California faces the real possibility of losing our top ranking in manufacturing, which would lead us slipping from the 5th largest economy in the world and falling behind in global competitiveness. We urge the Governor and Legislature to join us in a constructive dialogue about modernizing our tax framework to recognize that manufacturing and strong support of research and development, are essential to foster a robust manufacturing sector that drives job creation and economic growth. Let’s work together to cultivate an environment where California can thrive as a leader in manufacturing – starting immediately.”

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.