To mitigate the financial burden on returning citizens, this proposal seeks to address the excessive interest rates and penalties on state tax debts incurred during incarceration. It also introduces the option for sentenced individuals to apply for a freeze on taxes and interest until they are released, providing them with a fair opportunity to manage their financial obligations once they return home. This initiative is designed to promote economic stability and support successful reintegration into society. HOTT is also working in partnership with George Washington University Law School, with their Pro Bono Program (https://www.law.gwu.edu/pro-bono-program). Any attorney who wishes to work with HOTT on any of its projects may also work with a GW Law student who would do much of the legwork, research, and work for the project, though supervised by a bar-certified attorney.

We are reviewing the draft legislation we've developed, seeking insights on its implications from a state tax perspective. This legislation aims to curb recidivism by ensuring that newly returned citizens are not barred from obtaining driver's licenses or vehicle registrations due to accrued back taxes laden with interest. Additionally, it proposes a tolling of taxes for individuals incarcerated for any duration, from a few months to several years. This measure would halt the accumulation of interest, prevent the State of Maryland from imposing estimated taxes, and eliminate additional interest and penalties that could burden the affected individuals upon their return. This initiative is designed to facilitate a smoother reintegration into society for returning citizens. HOTT is also working in partnership with George Washington University Law School, with their Pro Bono Program (https://www.law.gwu.edu/pro-bono-program). Any attorney who wishes to work with HOTT on any of its projects may also work with a GW Law student who would do much of the legwork, research, and work for the project, though supervised by a bar-certified attorney.

Help with Research, read over language for the draft legislation and make suggestions from a legal stand point with State taxes and interest affecting impacted people when they come home from prison or jail.