On February 3, Legislative Director Kevin Kinnally submitted written testimony to the Budget and Taxation Committee in opposition to SB 271 – Income Tax – Subtraction Modification – Retirement Income of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services Personnel – Eligibility. 

This bill expands eligibility for the public safety employee retirement income subtraction modification to include specified retirement income attributable to service as a fire, rescue, or emergency services personnel of the District of Columbia.

Counties are eager and committed partners in promoting economic growth and creating opportunity — and prefer local autonomy in determining the best way to do so. The Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) opposes state-mandated reductions in local revenue sources, but welcomes flexible, optional tools to serve and respond to local needs and community priorities.

From MACo Testimony:

MACo urges the Committee to primarily consider state income tax credits as the best means to incorporate local tax relief into a broader policy. MACo and county governments stand ready to work with state policymakers to craft flexible, optional tools to deliver broad or targeted tax incentives, but resist state-mandated changes that preclude local input.

SB 271’s cross-file, HB 528, was heard on February 12 in the Ways and Means Committee. Kevin Kinnally submitted written testimony in opposition to this bill.

More on MACo’s Advocacy: 

• Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database
• Learn more about MACo’s 2026 Legislative Initiatives
• Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog