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MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Maryland (WDVM) – A new bill was recently introduced to establish a property tax credit for first responders. Supporters of the bill say they aim to encourage emergency response teams to live and invest in Montgomery County.
Under Bill 39-21, some Montgomery County first responders and emergency dispatchers could get up to $ 2,500 in annual credit.
However, the employee must be a legal owner of the property and the property must be the employee’s primary residence.
County officials say Montgomery County police have seen a slight increase in resignations and left the force, which is why lawmakers are hoping this bill will help recruit and retain first responders in the area.
“Over the past few years we have seen troubling trends in recruitment and retention, vacancies and high attrition rates within the Montgomery County Police Department, Fire and Rescue Services and the emergency call center, â€said Chairman Hucker. “We all benefit when first responders live in the communities they serve. This legislation sends an important signal to our first responders and emergency personnel that we appreciate and value their work, that they have our unwavering support, and that they are valued members of our community.
A public hearing for this bill is tentatively scheduled for November 9, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.
Council staff report for Bill 39-21 can be viewed here.
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