CAL EANGUS, the California chapter of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, is proud to sponsor Assembly Bill 53 (AB 53), introduced by Assemblymember James C. Ramos, representing California’s 45th Assembly District. This forward-thinking legislation aims to provide vital financial relief to retired military members and their families.
What is AB 53?
AB 53 proposes a significant step forward in recognizing the service and sacrifices of Californiaโs military retirees and their dependents. Key provisions of the bill include:
- State Tax Exemption for Retired Military Members: Beginning in 2027, retired members of the Armed Forces will be exempt from state income taxes on their retirement pay. This exemption acknowledges their dedication and service to our nation and aims to provide much-needed financial support.
- Exemption for DoD Survivor Benefits Program Recipients: The bill extends a state tax exemption to recipients of the Department of Defenseโs (DoD) Survivor Benefits Program. This program provides a continuous, inflation-adjusted monthly annuity to dependents of deceased service members, ensuring financial stability for surviving spouses and families.
Why AB 53 Matters
Military retirees and their families often face unique financial challenges. For retirees, transitioning to civilian life can come with economic uncertainties. For dependents, the loss of a retireeโs income can create long-term financial strain. AB 53 seeks to alleviate these burdens by:
- Recognizing the contributions of military retirees and ensuring they can enjoy financial security in retirement.
- Supporting families through the Survivor Benefits Program, ensuring they have a steady source of income after the loss of their loved one.
- Retaining a Diverse Workforce in California: One of the main purposes of AB 53 is to encourage retired military members to remain in California, where they and their families can continue to contribute to the stateโs workforce. Their diverse skills and experiences enrich Californiaโs communities and economy, showcasing the value of their service beyond their military careers.
- Enhancing Californiaโs attractiveness as a state for military retirees to settle, thereby benefiting local communities and economies.
The Role of CAL EANGUS
As the sponsor of AB 53, CAL EANGUS has been a steadfast advocate for policies that improve the lives of National Guard members, military retirees, and their families. This bill represents a continuation of our mission to ensure that the service of our members is recognized and valued through meaningful legislative action.
Assemblymember James C. Ramos: A Champion for Military Families
Assemblymember James C. Ramos has consistently demonstrated his commitment to Californiaโs service members and their families. Representing the 45th Assembly District, his leadership in introducing AB 53 reflects his dedication to creating policies that honor and support those who have served. His work on this bill is a testament to his understanding of the challenges faced by military retirees and their dependents.
How You Can Support AB 53
CAL EANGUS encourages all members, supporters, and community advocates to take action:
- Contact Your Representatives: Share your support for AB 53 with your local Assemblymembers and State Senators.
- Raise Awareness: Use social media and community events to highlight the importance of this bill.
- Join CAL EANGUS: Become a member to strengthen our collective voice and support initiatives like AB 53.
A Brighter Future for Military Retirees
AB 53 represents a significant step toward providing financial relief and stability for retired service members and their families. By passing this bill, California can honor the sacrifices of those who have served and ensure that their contributions are recognized long after their active service has ended. Moreover, retaining military retirees and their families within California fosters a stronger, more diverse workforce that benefits everyone in the state.
