CAL EANGUS Among Key Veteran Organizations Advocating for Change
Sacramento, CA – June 30, 2025 — In a long-awaited victory for California’s veteran community, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed the 2025-26 State Budget, marking a historic milestone in the fight for financial equity for military retirees and their surviving spouses. Among the most significant provisions is the first-ever state income tax exemption on military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments, allowing up to $20,000 annually to be excluded from taxable income.
Until now, California stood alone as the only state to fully tax military retirement benefits—a policy long criticized for discouraging veterans from staying in-state after their service. The newly adopted exemption marks a turning point, offering much-needed relief to thousands of veterans and widowed spouses across California.
This legislative victory is the result of years of dedicated advocacy by a broad coalition of veteran service organizations, including the California Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (CAL EANGUS), which proudly served as a co-sponsor of the measure.
“This is more than just tax policy—it’s about dignity, respect, and retaining the valuable leadership veterans bring to our state,” said Josh J. Baker, President of CAL EANGUS and Legislative Director for the California State Commanders Veterans Council (CSCVC). “We’re proud to stand alongside our partners to ensure California honors the service and sacrifice of its military retirees and surviving spouses.”
In addition to the tax relief provision, the budget allocates funding for deferred maintenance projects at veterans’ homes throughout the state, enhancing safety and quality of life for those who call these facilities home.
Fred Green, Chairman of the CSCVC, added, “The passage of the budget reflects a meaningful shift in California values to retain our veterans and surviving spouses into our workforce. We are grateful for the efforts of Assemblymember James Ramos, Governor Newsom, Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, Senator Bob Archuleta, and the California Legislature for prioritizing these critical veteran-focused investments.”
This milestone reflects growing bipartisan recognition of the vital role veterans play in California’s communities and economy. It also highlights the power of unified advocacy, with organizations like CAL EANGUS continuing to drive policy changes that honor and support those who have served.
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For further information, please contact:
Seth Reeb
Reeb Government Relations
Email: sethr@water-warrior.com
