This bill proposes the establishment of a new tax credit for physicians who graduate from accredited medical schools and choose to practice in West Virginia, particularly in medically underserved areas. The legislation includes several key provisions, such as defining eligible physicians, outlining the credit's maximum allowable amount, and detailing the application process. Eligible physicians must practice in the state for a minimum of six years to qualify for the credit, which can be claimed for three consecutive years based on their personal taxable income. The bill also empowers the Tax Commissioner to create necessary rules for implementation, including residency requirements and repayment obligations if the physician does not fulfill the six-year practice requirement.

The bill emphasizes the urgent need to attract qualified medical professionals to West Virginia, addressing the state's significant shortage of physicians and the resulting impact on healthcare delivery. It includes legislative findings that highlight the health crisis faced by the state's population and aims to promote better health outcomes through increased access to medical services. The proposed effective date for this tax credit is July 1, 2026, marking a strategic effort to enhance the healthcare workforce in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-13NN-1, 11-13NN-2, 11-13NN-3, 11-13NN-4, 11-13NN-5, 11-13NN-6, 11-13NN-7, 11-13NN-8, 11-13NN-9