Connecticut House Bill HB05348

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/17
• Refer: 1/10/17

Caption

An Act Eliminating The Personal Income Tax On Pensions.

Impact

The potential repeal of personal income tax on pensions could have significant implications for state revenue structures. Supporters argue that it would make the state an attractive destination for retirees, which in turn could foster economic growth through increased spending by this demographic. On the other hand, there are concerns regarding how such a tax elimination would affect the overall tax base, potentially leading to budget shortfalls for state-funded services and programs. This could lead to the state having to explore alternative sources of revenue or adjust public service funding accordingly.

Summary

House Bill 05348 proposes the complete elimination of the personal income tax imposed on pensions in the state. The bill is introduced with the aim of providing financial relief to retirees who rely on pension income for their livelihood. By removing this tax obligation, the legislation seeks to enhance the economic well-being of pensioners by allowing them to retain more of their retirement income. The bill is particularly significant as it directly targets a demographic that may face financial challenges in their retirement years, thereby encouraging discussions around fiscal policies supporting aging populations.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from the differing perspectives on the fiscal responsibility of the state versus the benefits provided to retirees. Advocates for the bill emphasize the necessity of supporting retirees and allowing them more control over their fixed incomes. However, opponents may express concerns about prioritizing tax reductions for a specific group at the potential expense of necessary state services that could be affected by decreased tax revenues. The discussions surrounding the bill reflect broader debates about tax policy, economic priorities, and the social contract between state governments and their citizens.