Senator Paul Rosino is preparing legislation offering tax incentives to oil and gas employers and engineers in an effort to attract and retain skilled workers in Oklahoma.
The proposal would provide tax credits for hiring qualified engineers, reimbursing tuition and entering the industry. Rosino plans to file the measure after the legislative filing period opens November 15.
“To keep this industry strong and competitive, we must make sure Oklahoma businesses can attract and retain the highly skilled workforce they need to grow,” Rosino said.
Eligible employers could receive a credit equal to 10% of compensation paid to qualifying engineers who graduate from Oklahoma institutions, or 5% for graduates of out-of-state institutions. The credit would be capped at $12,500 per employee annually and available during an employee’s first five years in the industry.
Employers could also claim a credit covering 50% of qualifying tuition reimbursements during an employee’s first four years of employment.
Qualifying engineers could receive an individual income tax credit of up to $5,000 annually for as many as five tax years. Unused credits could be carried forward for up to five additional tax years, subject to the proposal’s requirements.
“This legislation will help employers recruit qualified engineers, encourage talented graduates to build their careers here and make it easier for Oklahoma companies to invest in the people who will lead this industry into the future,” Rosino said.
If approved, the measure would take effect November 1, 2027, with the credits applying to tax years 2028 through 2032.
