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SB 607

Income Tax - Subtraction Modification for Public Safety Retirement Income - Amount

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jack Bailey and 6 co-sponsors

SB 607 modifies Maryland's income tax subtraction for public safety retirement income, adjusting how much qualifying retirees can exclude from state taxable income.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 686
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 607

Legislative bill overview

SB 607 modifies Maryland's income tax code to adjust the subtraction allowance for public safety retirement income. The bill specifically targets how much retirement income earned by police officers, firefighters, and other public safety personnel can be excluded from state taxable income. This is a technical tax provision that affects the tax burden on qualifying retirees.

Why is this important

Public safety workers often receive modest pensions relative to private sector retirement benefits, and tax policy can significantly impact their retirement security. Adjusting the subtraction amount directly affects take-home income for retired police, firefighters, and emergency responders—groups with relatively defined compensation structures. The change could either increase or decrease the tax liability for these retirees depending on whether the bill raises or lowers the allowable subtraction.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact ambiguity: Without the specific dollar amount in the bill title, it's unclear whether this increases revenue (by lowering the subtraction) or costs revenue (by raising it), making budget projections difficult
  • Equity concerns: Changes to public safety retirement benefits trigger debates about whether government workers receive preferential tax treatment compared to private sector retirees
  • Adequacy of retirement support: Advocates may argue public safety pensions are already insufficient; opponents may contend current tax benefits are generous given state fiscal constraints

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

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