I recently met with local veterans in District 74 to hear their concerns and issues regarding state policies affecting them. As Vice Chair of the Assembly’s Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, I listened to those willing to let me know what is working, what is not, and where we need to step up.
For example, California is the only state that taxes veterans’ benefits without any exemptions (an unnecessary burden on those who have already sacrificed so much). Our veteran suicide rate remains alarmingly high, yet access to mental health and support services is still inadequate.
We discussed current veteran-related bills introduced such as AB 53, of which I am a co-author, which would allow veterans to write off the first $20,000 of retirement pay on their tax return. After learning that a $20,000 write-off only saves about $1,600 in taxes, I met with the Committee Chair to push for full exemption. Our veterans deserve more than just partial relief—they deserve their hard-earned benefits, tax-free.
My team looked into older proposals fully exempting military retirement pay, and found in 2016 that a full exemption would have resulted in roughly $85 million in lost tax revenue. But with the declining veteran population, that number is going down. Again, it is a great first step, and any write-off is better than nothing, but know that we are fighting to increase that amount and that we want to make sure our veterans are keeping the money that they have valiantly earned.
A bill I am authoring, AB 587, would add a veteran as a board member to the California Student Aid Commission. We believe the perspective offered by veterans will help to make our financial aid systems much more efficient. And SB 296, offered by Senator Bob Archuleta, is another significant bill in advancing the fight for affordability for veterans in California. This bill would exempt veterans with a disability rating of 100% from paying property taxes on their homes.
The American Legion, a nonprofit organization founded in 1919, has advocated for the well-being of veterans for more than 100 years, and they have many posts throughout California. With members in attendance at our recent meeting, it is clear that the American Legion empowers people within the community to take proactive steps to help veterans feel seen, heard and supported. By leveraging its extensive network of volunteers, local posts, and national resources, the American Legion strives to create a culture where every veteran knows they have someone to turn to.
Our meeting also included a discussion on the American Legion’s “Be the One” movement. This program is a powerful initiative dedicated to preventing veteran suicide and offering essential support to those facing mental health challenges. Recognizing that veterans often experience unique struggles when transitioning back to civilian life, the program encourages individuals to “be the one” to reach out and check in on a veteran, offering a lifeline of support.
There is still a long way to go in ensuring that those who have sacrificed so much receive the full support and benefits they deserve. From tax burdens to mental health challenges, to affordable housing and finding jobs when they come home, veterans continue to face obstacles that hinder their well-being.
As we push for meaningful legislation like AB 53 and AB 587, it is clear that our veterans need more than just partial solutions. Organizations like the American Legion are making a difference, but it is up to all of us, both lawmakers and citizens, to ensure that veterans are not only honored with words but supported through real, actionable policies. If we truly want to honor the men and women who have served our country, we must do more than just offer words of gratitude. We need real policy changes that provide them with the financial security, health care, and resources they deserve.
I am committed to taking the steps necessary to guarantee that our veterans have the financial security, health care, and resources they have earned in hopes of creating a California where no veteran needs to struggle. It is my priority to ensure our state remains focused on supporting those who sacrificed for the freedom we all benefit from, every day.
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