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HB 1741

Venison donation tax credit.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Reid

Virginia tax credit incentivizes venison donations to food charities, trading revenue loss for increased hunger relief donations from hunters.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1741

Legislative bill overview

HB 1741 creates a state income tax credit for Virginia residents who donate venison to qualified charitable organizations that distribute the meat to food-insecure populations. The credit incentivizes wild game donation by providing a tax benefit to hunters who contribute their harvests to hunger relief efforts.

Why is this important

This bill addresses two policy goals simultaneously: reducing food insecurity by increasing charitable protein donations, and supporting hunting traditions by making venison contributions more economically attractive to hunters. Tax incentives can significantly influence charitable giving behavior, potentially expanding food bank capacity without requiring direct government spending increases.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax revenue impact: The fiscal note indicates potential state revenue loss; policymakers must weigh hunger relief benefits against foregone tax income and whether this is a cost-effective use of tax credits compared to direct food assistance funding
  • Valuation and fraud concerns: Determining fair market value of donated venison for tax purposes could be complex and subject to manipulation; compliance and audit mechanisms would need clear definition
  • Equity in benefit distribution: Tax credits primarily benefit higher-income filers who have tax liability; lower-income hunters may see limited benefit despite being significant contributors to venison donations in rural areas

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

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