Good news! Last week, S-Corp champions and Ways & Means Committee members Dave Reichert (R-WA) and Ron Kind (D-WI) introduced the latest version of the S Corporation Modernization Act of 2013. Designated H.R. 892, the bill seeks to improve the rules governing S corporations by making permanent the five years BIG holding period, allowing non-resident aliens to invest in S corporations through an EST, and reducing the sting of the “sting tax”, among other provisions.

Specifically, H.R.B 892 would make needed changes to keep S corporations competitive and ensuring continued success of America’s predominant private business model by:

  • Increasing the ability of S corporations to access much-needed capital;
  • Modernizing the rules that apply to firms that have selected S corporation status; and
  • Easing and expanding S corporations’ ability to make charitable donations.

Said Congressman Reichert of the bill in a press release,which also cites our 2011 Ernst & Young study, issued on Thursday:

This tax relief proposal that would make it easier for S corporations to access capital, compete, and hire new workers by modernizing outdated rules that currently stifle their growth. A 2011 independent study revealed tax law dealing with S corporations affects 31 million Americans as S corporations employ one out of four workers in the U.S. private sector.

“S corporations and similar businesses are responsible for more than half of the jobs in Washington State and across America,” Rep. Reichert said. “As our economy continues to struggle to regain sound footing, I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to help these proven job creators access the capital needed to grow, compete, and get Americans back to work. Working with the Ways and Means Committee toward comprehensive tax reform, I am committed to supporting these small businesses by advocating for pro-growth tax policies.”

The Reichert-Kind legislation presents a realistic set of reforms that would improve the ability of 4.5 million S corporations to access much-needed capital and increase their hiring capabilities. These reforms would improve the ability of S corporations to respond to the current business environment and remove impediments that prevent them from competing on a level playing field at home in the United States.

The bill is consistent with legislation introduced in the past, and we’re confident several of these provisions will be seriously considered this Congress. Thank you Mr. Reichert and Mr. Kind!