Virginia House Bill HB991

Virginia 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Income tax, state; subtraction for volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services personnel.

Impact

If passed, HB991 would modify the current statute concerning Virginia taxable income under Code 58.1-322.02 by introducing new provisions specifically tailored for volunteer emergency responders. This amendment would potentially improve the financial situation for many individuals actively engaged in volunteer services, making it more appealing for citizens to participate in these critical roles. The intent behind this bill is to enhance community safety and engagement by lessening the financial burden on volunteer first responders.

Summary

House Bill 991 seeks to amend Virginia's state income tax regulations by allowing for specific subtractions from taxable income for volunteer firefighters and volunteer emergency medical services personnel. This bill highlights the efforts to acknowledge the service of those individuals who contribute to their communities without financial compensation beyond possible reimbursements for expenses incurred while performing their duties. It aims to provide a greater financial benefit to those who dedicate their time and efforts to serve the public.

Contention

Some may argue that this bill represents a preferential treatment for certain groups of volunteers over others, which could ignite debates around equity in tax treatment across various community service sectors. Stakeholders in the debate may also highlight concerns about the financial implications for the state, weighing the benefits of supporting volunteer services against potential losses in tax revenue. Discussions surrounding this legislation may include a broader examination of how the state allocates its tax relief efforts among various service-oriented sectors.