Bill > HB243

This bill creates a new tax credit for volunteer emergency first responders, allowing eligible volunteers to claim a credit against their state income taxes. To qualify, individuals must provide uncompensated volunteer service in specific emergency roles, such as volunteer firefighters, emergency medical service members, auxiliary or reserve officers, emergency care providers, or air search and rescue volunteers. The tax credit is equal to $15 per hour of volunteer service, with a maximum annual credit of $1,500. Taxpayers must provide documentation of their volunteer hours to claim the credit, and importantly, the credit is refundable, meaning volunteers can receive the full credit amount even if they have no tax liability. The bill specifically notes that the purpose of this tax credit is to help retain existing volunteer emergency first responders and attract new volunteers. Additionally, the bill amends existing tax code to include this new credit in the periodic review process for tax credits by the revenue interim committee. The tax credit will apply to income tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, giving volunteer first responders a new financial incentive for their community service.

Budget and Finance

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2287