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HB 1200

Property Tax - Credit for Law Enforcement Officer or Rescue Worker - Expansion to Judicial Officer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 16 co-sponsors

Maryland expands property tax credits to judicial officers, extending tax relief previously limited to law enforcement and rescue workers on primary residences.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 129
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Bill Summary · HB 1200

Legislative bill overview

HB 1200 expands Maryland's existing property tax credit program to include judicial officers (judges, magistrates, and court commissioners) in addition to the current beneficiaries of law enforcement officers and rescue workers. The bill allows eligible judicial officers to claim a property tax credit on their primary residences.

Why is this important

Property tax credits directly reduce the tax burden on eligible homeowners, effectively lowering their housing costs. This expansion recognizes judicial officers as essential public servants deserving similar tax incentives previously reserved for law enforcement and emergency responders, potentially improving recruitment and retention in the judiciary.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and equity: The bill increases state tax expenditures; critics may question whether judicial officers (who typically earn higher salaries than police or firefighters) need the same tax relief as lower-paid emergency workers
  • Scope creep concerns: Expanding the program to judicial officers may invite further requests to include other public servants (teachers, social workers, etc.), creating budgetary pressure and precedent issues
  • Definition and verification: The bill requires clear definitions of eligible judicial positions and verification mechanisms, which could create administrative complexity and potential disputes over who qualifies

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

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