Kitzhaber supports tax breaks for Facebook data centers

KOIN:

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Gov. John Kitzhaber has thrown his support behind legislation intended to clear up uncertainty surrounding the Oregon tax rules that apply to Facebook.Kitzhaber's blessing is a step forward for the social media giant, which has feared that outdated laws might lead to an unexpectedly high tax bill at a data center in Prineville, where local officials promised tax breaks.Facebook is backing a bill clarifying that data centers are taxed by local authorities, not the state, while tax incentives are in effect. Kitzhaber adviser Scott Nelson said Thursday the governor would sign a bill with those provisions.Facebook lobbyist Corey Owens says the bill would secure the future of data centers in Oregon.A mild climate and abundant energy have made Eastern Oregon an attractive place for data centers, where technology companies store data.Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.

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