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Bill

Bill

HB 1410

Income Tax - Credit for Paid Organ Donation Leave

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Simmons

Maryland proposes income tax credit for residents taking paid leave to donate organs, removing financial barriers to donation and potentially increasing organ availability for transplants.

First Reading Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · HB 1410

Legislative bill overview

HB 1410 proposes to create an income tax credit for Maryland residents who take paid leave from work to donate an organ. The bill incentivizes organ donation by providing financial relief to donors who experience lost wages or reduced income during their donation recovery period.

Why is this important

Organ donation saves lives, but donors often face financial hardship from time off work during surgery and recovery. This tax credit removes a potential economic barrier to donation, potentially increasing donation rates and addressing Maryland's organ shortage. The policy uses tax incentives to encourage a socially beneficial health outcome.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: The fiscal cost to the state depends on participation rates and credit amounts; this could reduce tax revenue or require budget offsets
  • Credit design details: Ambiguity about credit amount, eligibility requirements (which donations qualify), income limits, and whether it covers all recovery time vs. surgery day only
  • Fairness questions: Whether tax credits are an equitable way to address donation barriers, or if direct subsidies or employer mandates would be more effective and progressive
  • Implementation burden: Tax administration complexity for verifying organ donation claims and coordinating with healthcare providers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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