H.249 is a bill introduced to create an income tax deduction for expenses related to home study programs for dependents in Vermont. The bill amends current law to allow taxpayers to deduct up to $1,000 in qualified expenses for a dependent enrolled in a home study program, as defined under federal law. The definition of "qualified expenses" includes costs for educational instruction, materials, equipment, software, and computer hardware necessary for the home study program, whether conducted in person or through distance learning.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the purpose of this deduction is to provide financial assistance to Vermonters who educate their dependents through home study programs. The effective date of the act is set to be retroactive to January 1, 2025, applying to taxable years beginning on or after that date. The bill also includes a deletion of a previous provision regarding cannabis-related deductions, streamlining the focus on educational expenses.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 32-5811, 32-5813