Bill > HB1521

This bill establishes a state income tax credit to encourage contributions, volunteerism, and employment initiatives aimed at supporting "at-risk youth," defined as individuals aged 12 to 25 who are chronically absent from school, involved in the juvenile justice system, aging out of foster care, experiencing homelessness, or residing in designated high-crime or high-poverty areas, including all of Baltimore City and Baltimore County. Individuals and businesses can receive a credit equal to 50% of qualified cash or in-kind donations to eligible organizations, with limits of $5,000 for individuals and $100,000 for businesses. Additionally, individuals volunteering to speak to students about their profession or youth empowerment at public schools or recreation centers can receive a $25 credit per day, capped at $500 annually, provided they volunteer for at least an hour and are accompanied by school officials. Employers can also claim a $1,000 credit for each at-risk youth they employ for at least 20 hours per week for 60 to 90 days, with a yearly cap of $5,000 per employer. The Department of Commerce will manage an application process for these credits, with a total statewide cap of $10 million in certified tax credits annually, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The bill also mandates regulations for certifying eligible organizations, designating applicable zip codes, and reporting on the program's impact, with a sunset provision for the tax credit to expire on June 30, 2033.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1521?ys=2026RS