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Bill

Bill

HB 2

Subtraction Modification - Public Safety Retirement Income

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Griffith

HB 2 modifies Maryland's tax treatment of public safety retirement income through adjusted subtraction calculations, affecting pensions for firefighters, police, and corrections officers.

First Reading Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · HB 2

Legislative bill overview

HB 2 proposes modifications to how public safety retirement income is calculated in Maryland, specifically adjusting subtraction methodology in the state's tax code related to pension benefits. The bill has been referred to the Ways and Means Committee and is scheduled for a hearing on January 20, 2026. Limited public documentation is currently available detailing the specific parameters of the income calculation changes.

Why is this important

Public safety retirement benefits directly affect firefighters, police officers, and corrections officers who have served Maryland. Changes to how retirement income is taxed or calculated can significantly impact take-home pay for retirees and influence recruitment and retention in these professions. This also affects state budget considerations and pension fund obligations.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact disagreement: Whether modifications reduce or increase the tax burden on retirees versus state revenue, and whether savings/costs are properly scored
  • Equity concerns: Questions about whether changes apply uniformly across all public safety sectors or create disparities between police, fire, and corrections employees
  • Retirement security: Whether modifications strengthen or weaken the pension system's financial sustainability and retiree protections

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

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