Popular Federal Tool for Investing in Distressed Areas Again Under Threat

"The premise behind New Market Tax Credits, or NMTCs, is simple: While there is certainly both need and opportunity in underserved communities, there isn’t much capital or private sector money," explains Bill Bradley. "So developers, business leaders and entrepreneurs in these areas — dubbed 'New Markets' — received federal subsidies to encourage more investment."

"In June, senators Jay Rockefeller (D-West Virginia) and Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) introduced legislation to have the program extended permanently. At the moment, however, there’s no sign that it will continue come the new year. Which seems crazy, given both the demand and the program’s success."