Oklahoma House Bill HB2865

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Revenue and taxation; tax deduction; infertility treatments; effective date.

Impact

If enacted, HB2865 would have a significant impact on the state tax code by introducing a new provision specifically aimed at medical expenses tied to infertility. This adjustment would involve the verification of claimed expenses through a formal process to ensure their legitimacy. The inclusion of infertility treatment costs as deductible expenses could incentivize individuals and couples to seek necessary medical interventions without the added burden of full upfront costs. This could potentially lead to increased access to these treatments for those in need.

Summary

House Bill 2865 is a legislative proposal that seeks to amend Oklahoma's tax laws to provide a tax deduction for expenses related to infertility treatments. The bill proposes an adjustment to 68 O.S. 2011, Section 2358, allowing individuals who incur costs for infertility treatments to claim these expenses as deductions on their state tax returns. The intent of the bill is to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by individuals pursuing infertility treatments, which can be costly and emotionally taxing.

Contention

There are important considerations surrounding the bill, particularly regarding its financial implications for the state's revenue. Opponents may raise concerns about the potential loss of tax income for the state, questioning whether the benefits of allowing such deductions outweigh the fiscal impact. Additionally, ethical considerations about the types of infertility treatments covered and the requirements for expense verification may lead to debate. These discussions could foster contention among lawmakers, especially regarding equitable access to tax benefits and the prioritization of healthcare funding.