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Four of Commerce’s 13 major functions could
be eliminated, primarily because other programs provide similar services. The
Legislature could also eliminate four other programs; however, there are some
advantages to retaining them in some form. Auditors further identified five
major functions that should be retained because they provide valuable
services, but could be transferred to other agencies, and the Legislature
could eliminate Commerce’s administrative functions if it decides to sunset
the Department.
The Legislature should also consider taking
steps to eliminate any of the five Commerce-administered tax credit programs
that are not cost-effective. Companies claimed at least $65 million in these
income tax credits from 1994 to 2000, and retain another $60 million in
credits that can be used on future tax returns. However, literature suggests
that these types of incentives have little impact on economic growth.
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