Bill > HB2549

This bill expands Oregon's rural health care income tax credit to include pharmacists, allowing licensed pharmacists who work at least 20 hours per week in rural areas to qualify for a tax credit, similar to existing provisions for physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. The bill directs the Office of Rural Health to establish specific criteria for certifying pharmacists as eligible for the tax credit, requiring that they provide services in rural communities. Pharmacists must meet similar requirements as other healthcare professionals, such as being engaged in a rural practice and potentially having specific hospital-related connections. The tax credit expansion will apply to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, and the bill will take effect 91 days after the 2025 legislative session adjourns. This legislation aims to incentivize healthcare professionals, now including pharmacists, to work in underserved rural areas by offering a financial tax benefit, which could help address healthcare access challenges in rural Oregon communities.

Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2549