Majority of Marylanders Support Eliminating Pharma Tax Break

Poll shows 73% of voters want affordable healthcare, with revenue from tax incentive cuts going to Medicaid and health exchange.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:59pm

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A new poll by Opinion Works found that 73% of registered Maryland voters believe healthcare should be available and affordable. A bill in Annapolis aims to eliminate a tax break for pharmaceutical companies, which would drive an estimated $24 million in additional revenue to Medicaid and the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange. However, drug companies and broadcasters are opposing the measure, arguing it unfairly targets them.

Why it matters

This poll indicates strong public support in Maryland for policies that would make healthcare more accessible and affordable, even if it means eliminating tax incentives for pharmaceutical companies. The proposed legislation represents an effort to redirect funds from the industry toward public health programs.

The details

The bill being discussed in Annapolis would eliminate a tax break currently enjoyed by pharmaceutical companies. Supporters say this would generate an estimated $24 million in additional revenue, which would then be directed to Medicaid and the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange. Drug companies and broadcasters, however, are opposing the measure, claiming it unfairly singles out their industries and poses a threat to their First Amendment rights.

  • The poll by Opinion Works was conducted recently.
  • The bill is currently being discussed in the Annapolis legislature.

The players

Opinion Works

A polling firm that conducted a survey of registered Maryland voters.

Annapolis

The state capital of Maryland where the bill is being discussed in the legislature.

Pharmaceutical companies

Drug companies that currently receive a tax break that the proposed legislation aims to eliminate.

Medicaid

The public health insurance program that would receive additional funding if the tax break is eliminated.

Maryland Health Benefit Exchange

The state-based health insurance marketplace that would also receive additional revenue from the elimination of the pharma tax break.

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What’s next

The Annapolis legislature will continue to debate and consider the proposed bill to eliminate the pharmaceutical tax break.

The takeaway

This poll suggests strong public support in Maryland for policies that prioritize affordable healthcare, even if it means reducing tax incentives for the pharmaceutical industry. The proposed legislation represents an effort to redirect funds from the private sector toward public health programs.