But Exxon and BP and Conoco can and did BUY the cash credits from the little non-producers (who had no oil to credit against) and then the big three used the non-producers higher 35% credit to offset taxes owed on legacy oil! The scam is thanks to Hawker and the Conoco caucus in the legislature and a late night amendment to SB21.  I believe I remember Hawker`s spouse also worked for Conoco in a manner as an accountant or contract employee.  Fit right in with Meyer and Micciche and the rest...https://www.adn.com/politics/article/series-conoco-employees-help-ease-oil-tax-bill-through-legislature/2013/03/28/