Connecticut Senate Bill SB00060

Connecticut 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/22
• Refer: 2/15/22

Caption

An Act Exempting From The Personal Income Tax Stipends Paid To Volunteer Firefighters And Volunteer Ambulance Members.

Impact

If enacted, SB00060 will directly impact volunteer firefighters and ambulance members by alleviating their tax burdens. This change signifies a broader appreciation for the role that volunteers play in public safety and emergency response. Additionally, the exemption would incentivize more individuals to join these vital services, positively affecting community safety and resilience in emergencies. The financial benefit of this exemption could also lead to increased motivation for others to volunteer, strengthening local response teams.

Summary

SB00060 is a proposed bill aimed at exempting stipends paid to volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance members from the personal income tax. This legislation is introduced to recognize the service provided by these vital community members, offering them financial relief that can aid in sustaining their efforts. By removing this tax obligation, the bill encourages volunteerism and supports local fire and emergency medical services that often rely on volunteer personnel to operate effectively.

Contention

Although the bill holds significant support among community leaders and volunteer organizations, potential points of contention may arise regarding the financial implications for municipalities. Opponents might raise concerns about the loss of tax revenue for local governments, which could affect funding for other key services. Discussions could explore the balance between providing necessary incentives for volunteer services and maintaining healthy municipal budgets. Ensuring that the bill’s financial impact is manageable could be a crucial aspect of the legislative debate surrounding SB00060.