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Minutes for HB2688 - Committee on Taxation
Short Title
Providing a sales tax exemption for exploration place, inc.
Minutes Content for Thu, Mar 7, 2024
Chairperson Smith called for discussion and final action on HB2688.
Mr. Siebers provided an overview for HB2688 that would provide a sales tax exemption for purchases of property or services purchased by Exploration Place, Inc. in which such property and services are used for the purpose of constructing, remodeling, furnishing or equipping a Riverfront Amphitheater, a destination playscape, an education center and indoor renovations at Exploration Place in Wichita, Kansas. The bill also provides a sales tax exemption for all sales of tangible personal property or services purchased by a contractor for the purchase of constructing, remodeling, furnishing or equipping such projects for Exploration Place. The sales tax exemption would have no effect on and after December 31, 2030.
Representative Helgerson moved, seconded by Representative Hoheisel, the Committee recommend HB2688 favorable for passage
Chairperson Smith offered an amendment for the Discovery Center in Shawnee County that fits the exact same concept as the Exploration Place, Inc.
Representative Smith moved, seconded by Representative Hoheisel, to amend HB2688. (Attachment1)
Mr. Siebers provided information on the amendment for HB2688 to provide the same provision as the Exploration Place, Inc., would also apply for the Kansas Children's Discovery Center, Inc. The sales tax exemption for Children's Discovery Center and Exploration Place are generally identical and would be in effect on January 1, 2024 so from January 1, 2024 through the end of June, 2024 would be eligible for refunds. HB2688 would expire on December 31, 2030.
Chairperson Smith stated the Committee did not have a chance to hear a bill regarding the Kansas Children's Discovery Center and stated he will use the Chairman's prerogative and do something a little unorthodox stating Dene' Mosier, CEO, Kansas Children's Discovery Center will speak to the Committee regarding the Discovery Center.
Dene' Mosier stated the Children's Discovery Center is a 501(c)(3) children's museum for children and families. She noted the Discovery Center brings children and families together for learning through play and is about to embark on a $10.0 expansion that will double its square footage. This will provide critical childcare needs for school age children and also with the National Guard to provide service weekend childcare. Ms. Mosier stood for questions from Committee members.
In response to questions, Ms. Mosier stated they are still in the early stages of private fundraising and hope to raise money in addition to getting the tax break. The tax break will be used for the purchase of materials for the expansion and she noted the Discovery Center will also receive tax dollars to be utilized for a portion of the construction costs. Ms. Mosier stated they will have to go through the licensing process for childcare but it will be for school age children and there will be three classrooms with a maximum of thirty in each classroom. As for the weekend childcare for service weekends, they are looking at an equivalent of 5,000 childcare days per year.
Representative Helgerson closed on his motion for HB2688 to be passed as amended. Motion carried.
Chairperson Smith adjourned the meeting.
