AIG denied $ 18M tax incentives for Ark project, threatens Federal suit

• This is Ken Ham’s response to this incident.


• This is AiG’s detailed response to Kentucky’s decision.


• This AiG’s recent video documenting the fact that, despite derision and opposition, construction on the Ark is underway right now and it will be built.

The outcome of this case will be interesting. It seems that the state’s case is built around the idea that the initial approval of tax credits was based on the Ark Encounter being a particular type of attraction and offering certain kinds of employment opportunities. In the state’s view, the Ark Encounter’s proposed hiring practices and activities disqualify it from funding. I have no idea what the correct legal solution is. It will be educational to see how the courts parse this. Oddly enough, both sides can make a claim to be upholding religious freedom.

Here is the letter from the state: https://cdn-assets.answersingenesis.org/doc/articles/2014/letter-from-s…

Anytime you get in bed with the Government, you’re going to get fleas. No religious organization of any kind should EVER take government assistance. Once you do, you get the privilege of living under their controls.

Similar sentiments too DLCreed here: I would be highly surprised if AIG sued. Taking the govt to court for not getting money or tax deductions, seems to contradict the philosophy they espouse about religious freedom and gov’ts staying out of religious affairs.

BTW: I have a soft spot for AIG, but they are leaving themselves open to charges of hypocrisy.

We have close ties with AIG. My understanding is that the Kentucky program would allow the Ark Encounter to get tax breaks for bringing business to the state, a program that is open to any and all businesses that exist within certain “tourism/hospitality” guidelines. The fact that this particular venture is faith-based doesn’t really have a ton to do with it (except to the mainstream media, who have constantly misrepresented what is going on). Our church doesn’t pay taxes…technically we are getting a “tax-break” (ie, being tax-exempt) for being a nonprofit, just like all the other nonprofits out there. Are we in “bed with the government” as well? I would be curious as to what the differences are.

The state promised them the tax breaks - then AIG chose to build in that location. Then AIG got so far into the construction they would not be able to change locations - then the state backs out of its deal. How does AIG not have the moral high ground here?