AN ACT ESTABLISHING A REFUNDABLE CREDIT AGAINST THE PERSONAL INCOME TAX FOR VOLUNTEER FIRST RESPONDERS.

SB 186 establishes a $2,000 refundable credit against personal income tax for volunteer firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, and civil preparedness staff. This credit directly benefits these unpaid volunteers by reducing their tax liability, and if the credit exceeds their tax owed, they receive the difference as a cash refund. The bill amends the state tax code to create this refundable credit, providing financial recognition for their service without requiring them to pay additional taxes. It does not alter existing tax rates or apply to paid first responders.