The Georgia Senate has passed a bill that would eliminate state income taxes on military retirement benefits, marking a significant step towards providing financial relief to veterans. The bill, a version originating from the Georgia House of Representatives, received Senate approval on Friday, paving the way for its return to the House for final consideration.

Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones has voiced his strong support for the bill, urging members of the House to swiftly pass the legislation. Currently, Georgia law allows retired military service members under the age of 62 to exempt the first $17,500 of their retirement income from state income taxes. “I want to thank the Senate for its bi-partisan support of this important measure,” Jones stated. “Eliminating the income tax on military retirement benefits is a common-sense approach to providing tax relief to heroes who have risked their lives to keep our communities, state and nation safe. Allowing these benefits to be earned tax-free will also help make Georgia a leading destination for servicemen and women as they transition from the military into civilian life and bring their talents and experience to workplaces across our state.” Jones also expressed his gratitude to the Senate for their diligent work on the legislation.

If approved by the House without any modifications and subsequently signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp, House Bill 266 would provide a complete exemption from Georgia income taxes for all income paid to military retirees as retirement benefits. This legislation is poised to significantly impact the lives of Georgia’s military veterans, attracting and retaining skilled individuals within the state.