State Rep. Gina Johnsen on Tuesday testified before the House Finance Committee in support of her plan to provide a state income tax exemption for expectant mothers.

“This plan is a straightforward, pro-family proposal that updates Michigan’s tax code to reflect the real, documented financial responsibilities that begin during pregnancy,” said Johnsen, R-Portland. “A pregnant woman who has carried a child for most of the year, attended prenatal visits, and shouldered significant physical, emotional, and financial responsibilities receives no recognition in our tax code unless the child is born by year-end. My plan addresses that disparity and brings parity to how growing families are treated under state law.”

Under the plan, House Bill 4202, taxpayers who have been pregnant for at least 10 weeks of the tax year would be eligible for the exemption. To qualify, applicants would need to submit, with their tax return, a signed medical statement from their physician confirming the pregnancy.

“The 10-week threshold is intentional. It is medically meaningful—at that stage, the fetus has a detectable heartbeat, organ systems are forming, and prenatal care is typically underway,” Johnsen said. “Importantly, this bill is designed to complement – not replace – existing support programs. The federal WIC program, for example, begins providing nutritional assistance as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. My plan adds to that support by providing tax relief at a later, more clearly defined stage of pregnancy when financial burdens tend to increase.”

According to U.S. News and World Report, the average pregnancy results in nearly $3,500 in out-of-pocket medical expenses. Johnsen’s bill aims to ease that burden by offsetting costs related to doctor’s visits, maternity clothing, prenatal vitamins, and other pregnancy-related expenses.

The legislation remains in the House Finance Committee awaiting a potential vote.

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