§ 68-4102. Legislative intent – Incentives to support retention of manufacturing and jobs.

It is the intent of the Legislature that:

1.  The State of Oklahoma provide appropriate incentives to support retention of a qualified manufacturing establishment:

a.that is imminently at risk of ceasing operations in this state,

b.that provides long-term benefits through retention of quality jobs which increase the wealth of the state, and

c.that agrees to engage in significant modernization and retooling that will promote the growth of the industry in Oklahoma and, by doing so, stabilize the economy of the State of Oklahoma when there is a direct threat to the existing revenue base and wealth of the state because existing establishments are at risk of being lost to other states or nations;

2.  The amount of incentives provided pursuant to this act in connection with a particular establishment be directly related to benefits due to retention of jobs and the investment of additional capital for modernizing and retooling;

3.  The Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the Oklahoma Tax Commission implement the provisions of this act and exercise all powers as authorized in this act.  The exercise of powers conferred by this act shall be deemed and held to be the performance of essential public purposes; and

4.  Nothing herein shall be construed to constitute a guarantee or assumption by the State of Oklahoma of any debt of any individual, company, corporation or association.  Nor does this act authorize the credit of the State of Oklahoma to be given, pledged or loaned to any individual, company, corporation or association.  Nothing herein shall be construed to constitute a gift by the State of Oklahoma to any individual, company, corporation or association.

Added by Laws 2004, c. 391, § 2, eff. July 1, 2004.