Iowa House Bill HF291

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/14/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to withholding Iowa state income tax from retirement income, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.

Impact

If enacted, HF291 will have immediate effects on Iowan retirees and their financial planning. The removal of withholding requirements for retirement income may encourage retirees to save or invest a larger portion of their income, potentially stimulating local economies. Additionally, this bill is aimed at retroactive applicability from January 1, 2023, which means it will directly impact tax calculations starting from the beginning of the current tax year, providing economic relief to those affected by previous withholding rules.

Summary

House File 291 (HF291) is an act intended to amend the current regulations surrounding the withholding of Iowa state income tax on retirement income. Specifically, the bill seeks to strike provisions that impose withholding requirements on state income tax from retirement payments, such as pensions and annuities, for Iowa residents. This change aligns with the existing legal framework in which retirement income is typically exempt from state taxation, allowing individuals to retain more of their income.

Contention

The bill's passage is likely to generate debate among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters may argue that the elimination of withholding enhances fairness for retirees who might struggle with tax burdens on fixed incomes. Conversely, opponents could raise concerns about potential increases in state revenue loss due to reduced tax collections from retirees. As this involves a significant change in fiscal policy, discussions may center around the long-term sustainability of the state's tax revenue and its implications for public services.