Bill > HB197

This bill establishes a new excise tax on firearms, firearm accessories, and ammunition, with a rate of 11%, to be administered by the Comptroller. The revenue generated from this tax will be distributed to various programs aimed at community safety and violence prevention, including the Maryland Violence Intervention and Prevention Program Fund, the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention, the Coordinated Community Supports Partnership Fund, the Survivors of Homicide Victims Grant Program, the Maryland Trauma Physician Services Fund, and the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center. The bill defines key terms such as "firearm," "ammunition," and "firearm accessory," and outlines when the tax applies to sales made by federally licensed firearms dealers, with specific provisions for large retailers and out-of-state dealers. It also details the requirements for filing tax returns, paying the tax, and the penalties for non-compliance, including fines and imprisonment for willful failure to file or filing a false return. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2027.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0197?ys=2026RS