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HB 175

Income Tax Credit - Venison Donation - Alterations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Buckel and 11 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes income tax credit for venison donations to charities, incentivizing hunters to contribute harvested deer to food assistance programs.

Returned Passed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 175

Legislative bill overview

HB 175 proposes to create or modify an income tax credit in Maryland for individuals who donate venison to charitable organizations. The bill appears designed to incentivize wildlife donations by providing tax benefits to hunters who contribute their harvested deer to food banks or similar charitable entities.

Why is this important

This bill addresses food security and wildlife management simultaneously—venison donations can supplement food assistance programs while potentially reducing deer overpopulation issues. The tax incentive mechanism aims to remove financial barriers that might discourage hunters from donating rather than processing meat for personal use.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax revenue impact: The fiscal cost of the credit is unclear—how many donations would occur and at what value, potentially reducing state tax revenue
  • Valuation challenges: Determining fair market value of donated venison for tax purposes could be complex and subject to manipulation or dispute
  • Administrative burden: Maryland's tax administration would need to verify donations, track credit claims, and establish eligibility criteria, raising compliance costs
  • Equity questions: The benefit primarily accrues to hunters (a limited population segment), raising fairness concerns about targeted tax preferences
  • Game management coordination: The bill's alignment with Maryland's Department of Natural Resources deer management goals and licensing framework remains unclear

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

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