Connecticut House Bill HB05326

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/19
• Refer: 1/15/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Phase-in Schedule For The Personal Income Tax Exemption For Pension Income.

Impact

If passed, HB 05326 would significantly affect state tax laws by providing a complete exemption for pension income, without the gradual phase-in that exists under current regulations. This change is intended to enhance the financial stability of retirees by allowing them to retain more of their income, thus potentially increasing their disposable income and stimulating local economies. As a result, this could also impact the overall tax revenue collected by the state, prompting discussions on budgetary implications.

Summary

House Bill 05326 aims to amend section 12-701 of the general statutes to exempt pension income from personal income tax. This bill proposes an adjustment to the current phase-in schedule, providing immediate benefits to individuals drawing pension income. The decision to exempt such income is primarily targeted at easing the financial burden on retirees and encouraging their economic contribution during retirement years.

Contention

While the bill is anticipated to have positive effects for pensioners, it may also be met with contention. Critics could argue that such tax exemptions should be balanced with the need to maintain state revenue for essential services. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding fairness in the tax system, particularly from those who are not beneficiaries of the pension exemption. This could lead to debates surrounding tax equity, as individuals and groups consider how tax burdens are distributed among different demographics within the state.