The bill amends the existing Rural Health Care Practitioner Tax Credit in New Mexico to expand eligibility to include licensed respiratory care practitioners and polysomnographic technologists. Specifically, it adds these two professions to the list of eligible health care practitioners who can claim the tax credit, which is available to those providing health care services in rural underserved areas. The credit amount remains at $5,000 for certain health care providers who meet specific service hour requirements, while those providing fewer hours can claim half of that amount.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for eligible practitioners to apply for the tax credit through the Department of Health, which will issue certificates to qualifying individuals. The provisions of this act will take effect for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2025. The inclusion of respiratory care practitioners and polysomnographic technologists aims to enhance healthcare access in rural areas by incentivizing these professionals to practice in underserved locations.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 7-2-18.22