H.R.1264 - USA Batteries Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1264, the USA Batteries Act, proposes amending the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to remove lead oxide, antimony, and sulfuric acid from the list of taxable chemicals under the Superfund excise taxes. The bill argues that the current Superfund fee disadvantages American battery manufacturers. It aims to bolster the domestic lead battery industry by reducing the tax burden on key raw materials.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the USA Batteries Act would reduce the cost of producing lead batteries in the United States by removing certain taxes. This could lead to increased domestic production and competitiveness. It may also impact the funding of the Superfund program, potentially requiring alternative revenue sources.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced costs for domestic battery manufacturers.
- Increased competitiveness of the US lead battery industry.
- Potential for job growth in the battery manufacturing sector.
- Support for industries reliant on lead batteries (defense, transportation, etc.).
- Encourages domestic production over reliance on imported batteries.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential reduction in Superfund revenue, impacting environmental cleanup efforts.
- May incentivize the continued use of lead batteries, which have environmental concerns despite high recycling rates.
- Could create a tax loophole benefiting specific industries at the expense of broader environmental goals.
- Possible negative impact on the development and adoption of alternative battery technologies.
- May face opposition from environmental groups concerned about lead pollution.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill falls under the purview of Congress's power to tax and regulate commerce, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. The power to amend the Internal Revenue Code is a legislative function. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).