This morning, Josh J. Baker, State President of CAL EANGUS and Legislative Officer for the California State Commanders Veterans Council, testified before California lawmakers in support of SB-1 and SB-23, two critical bills designed to ease financial burdens on Veterans and their families. These bills aim to make California a more welcoming state for military retirees, surviving spouses, and disabled Veterans by reducing unfair tax burdens.
SB-1: Eliminating State Income Tax on Military Retirement and Survivor Benefits
SB-1, the Military Services Retirement and Surviving Spouse Benefit Payment Act, seeks to exempt military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments from state income tax. Currently, California is the only state in the nation that fully taxes these benefits. Since 2016, the state has seen a median decline of 2,600 military retirees per year, with many leaving for states that offer tax exemptions. This exodus has resulted in a loss of over $558 million in federal retirement and SBP payments, taking critical financial resources away from local economies.
“Our service members dedicate decades of their lives to protecting this country,” said Baker in his testimony. “Yet, California remains the only state that fully taxes their hard-earned retirement. SB-1 is about honoring our Veterans and surviving spouses by removing this undue financial burden.”
With over 141,000 military retirees and 27,000 SBP recipients in California, SB-1 is a crucial step toward keeping Veterans in the state, ensuring they continue to contribute to the workforce and economy.
SB-23: Homes for Heroes Act – Full Property Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans
California’s cost of living and property taxes are among the highest in the nation, making homeownership increasingly difficult for disabled Veterans. SB-23, the Homes for Heroes Act, proposes a full property tax exemption for Veterans classified as 100% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Additionally, it extends this exemption to unmarried surviving spouses, ensuring they receive the same relief their Veteran spouse would have been entitled to.
Currently, disabled Veterans can qualify for partial property tax exemptions, but they are insufficient given California’s rising costs. The average property tax in 2024 is $4,831, while the median home price is $869,000, making it nearly impossible for many disabled Veterans to afford homeownership. Under current law, even those who qualify for the low-income exemption only save around $3,155, which fails to address the financial challenges they face.
“Many 100% disabled Veterans are unable to work, and their benefits simply don’t keep up with the cost of living in California,” Baker stated. “SB-23 will provide real relief to those who have sacrificed everything for our country.”
CAL EANGUS & The California State Commanders Veterans Council: A Voice for All Veterans
While CAL EANGUS primarily represents Enlisted California Guardsmen, its advocacy extends to all Veterans residing in California. As Legislative Officer for the California State Commanders Veterans Council (CSCVC), Baker plays a key role in promoting Veterans’ rights, entitlements, and benefits. The CSCVC actively works with state legislators, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other agencies to advance policies that support the well-being of Veterans and their families.
“The fight for Veterans’ rights goes beyond just the National Guard,” Baker emphasized. “It’s about ensuring that all Veterans—whether they served in the Guard, Reserves, or Active Duty—have access to the benefits they earned.”
A Continued Commitment to Veteran Advocacy
The testimony given today is part of a broader effort by CAL EANGUS and the California State Commanders Veterans Council to push for policies that enhance the lives of Veterans and their families. SB-1 and SB-23 are vital steps toward creating a more Veteran-friendly California, and the fight for these benefits is far from over.
As these bills move through the legislative process, CAL EANGUS will continue working to ensure they become law. Through strong leadership and unwavering advocacy, we can make a lasting impact for those who have served.
