Bill would offer tax credit for hiring homeless

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The House endorsed Monday a bill that would give employers up to a $2,000 tax credit if they hire someone who is homeless.

The House passed HB140 on a 38-36 vote, and sent it to the Senate.

Rep. Brian King, D-Salt Lake City, said it would "level the playing field" for homeless people because employers now are hesitant to hire them. Several lawmakers, however, argued it could give them advantages over others as employers seek the credit.

The House passed a similar bill last year, but it died in the Senate. Fiscal analysts figure the tax credit would cost the state about $123,000 a year.

— Lee Davidson