LANSING, MI — State Rep. Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) on Tuesday introduced House Bill 4202, a proposal to provide an additional state income tax exemption for expectant mothers. Under the plan, pregnant taxpayers who have been pregnant for at least 10 weeks of the tax year would be eligible for the exemption.

“Motherhood begins at conception,” said Johnsen, R-Portland. “Pregnancy is a time of great joy, but it also brings financial and health challenges that can be overwhelming. Given the significant financial burden of raising children, the state provides tax exemptions to offset those costs. This measure extends that same relief to expectant mothers.”

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.

“This exemption is a simple, meaningful way to support women as they care for themselves while nurturing another life,” Johnsen said. “By reducing financial barriers to parenthood, we can help expectant moms focus on what matters most—their health and their baby’s well-being.”

To qualify, applicants would need to submit a signed medical statement from their physician confirming the pregnancy with their tax return.

HB 4202 has been referred to the House Committee on Finance for further consideration.

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