Proposed Bill Would Assist Pros with Equipment Investments

Representative Lou Correa (CA-46, which includes part of Southern California’s Orange Country) introduced the “Promoting Reduction of Emissions Through Landscaping Equipment Act.” This legislation would create a federal tax credit to enable local small businesses, including landscaping and lawn care businesses of all sizes, to transition to zero-emission equipment with less financial burden.

Specifically, it would supplement the purchase of climate-friendly equipment for landscaping and lawn care businesses with a tax credit. The bill could also allow for improvements in local air quality, reduction of noise pollution, protection of workers’ health, and reduced reliance on gas and diesel. The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

“As our economy moves towards greener and cleaner energy sources, we can’t leave behind our small business owners, many of whom are small firms with just one owner and a handful of employees, right here on Main Street,” Correa said. “This bill will transform businesses that rely on gas- and diesel-powered equipment into leaders of the green economy transition—and better yet, ensure a competitive and innovative market that will ultimately benefit consumers.”

Increasing Restrictions

The legislation amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to establish a tax credit for local small businesses, including landscaping and lawn care businesses. Currently, more than 300 restrictions exist on gas-powered lawn equipment across the country, as more localities recognize the need to transition to quieter, less polluting zero-emission equipment. The bill will assist landscaping businesses adapt to local ordinances and consumer demand for better, cleaner, and quieter equipment while reducing their costs over time through lower maintenance expenses and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

“This bill, which would help landscape companies offset some of the cost of transitioning from gas to zero-emission equipment, is an important model for legislation supporting the business community while also protecting the environment,” said Britt Wood, CEO of the National Association of Landscape Professionals. “We applaud Rep. Correa for his leadership on this important issue.”

Tax Credit

This bill provides a 40% credit on the purchase of zero-emission equipment, such as mowers, leaf blowers, hedgers, and accessories up to $25,000 every year and up to $100,000 over the course of 10 consecutive years. The tax credit, which applies to any equipment purchased on or after January 1, 2023, also extends to retrofitting equipment that transforms gas-powered devices to zero-emission.

“Rep. Correa’s bill will help reduce harmful pollution and protect the health of workers, homeowners and tenants by incentivizing landscaping businesses to move to quieter, zero-emission lawnmowers, leaf blowers and other small machinery,” said Elizabeth Gore, Senior Vice President, Political Affairs, at the Environmental Defense Fund. “This legislation is a win for small businesses, healthy communities and our climate.”

“A zero-emission future is urgently needed to improve air quality and protect health. Small off-road engines, including lawn and landscaping equipment, are highly polluting and put communities at risk,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “Pollution impacts everyone’s health, but it is particularly dangerous for those who spend time outdoors like children or the outdoor workers operating the equipment. Incentivizing the transition to zero-emission equipment will make progress toward improving air quality and protecting the health of workers and communities across the country.”