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HB 13

Income Tax - Credit for 9-1-1 Specialist Retirement Income (Supporting Our 9-1-1 Specialists Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jessica Feldmark and 3 co-sponsors

Maryland bill exempts 911 dispatcher retirement income from state taxes to improve recruitment and retention in emergency services.

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Bill Summary · HB 13

Legislative bill overview

HB 13 modifies Maryland's income tax code to allow public safety employees (specifically 9-1-1 dispatchers and related personnel) to exclude retirement income from state taxable income. This creates a tax subtraction similar to existing provisions for military and certain other public employees, reducing the tax burden on qualifying retirees.

Why is this important

Public safety dispatchers face significant physical and mental stress, and Maryland currently offers limited tax relief for their retirement compared to other states and federal programs. This bill addresses recruitment and retention challenges in critical 911 services by improving retirement income security, which directly affects emergency response capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: The bill will reduce state tax revenue, requiring analysis of fiscal costs and whether funding should be offset elsewhere
  • Scope definition: Questions remain about which specific positions qualify as "public safety employees" and whether the definition appropriately targets intended beneficiaries
  • Equity concerns: Critics may argue why 911 dispatchers receive special treatment versus other essential public workers (teachers, corrections officers, social workers) not receiving similar exemptions
  • Implementation complexity: Determining eligibility and administering the subtraction adds administrative burden to the tax system

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

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