Kansas House Bill HB2109

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23
• Report Pass: 2/20/23
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Increasing the income limit for the income tax subtraction modification for social security income and providing that all social security benefits qualify for the subtraction modification commencing in tax year 2026.

Impact

The passage of HB2109 is anticipated to directly impact low to middle-income retirees who rely heavily on social security as their primary source of income. By increasing the income limit for tax modifications, it stands to benefit many residents, potentially leading to an increase in disposable income among retirees in Kansas. This bill may also align Kansas tax policy more closely with the policies of other states that already provide favorable tax treatment for social security income, thereby potentially enhancing the state's attractiveness to retirees.

Summary

House Bill 2109 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the income tax laws in Kansas, specifically concerning the treatment of social security income. The bill proposes to increase the income threshold that qualifies for subtraction modifications for social security income starting from tax year 2026. This change intends to provide tax relief to individuals receiving social security benefits by allowing a greater portion of their benefits to be excluded from their adjusted gross income for state tax purposes. By raising the limit, it aims to ease the tax burden on retirees and enhance financial stability for these individuals.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2109 revolve around its fiscal ramifications and the implications for the state budget. Critics argue that providing tax breaks specifically for social security could create gaps in tax revenue, which may affect funding for essential services. Supporters, on the other hand, assert that this modification is a necessary response to the financial pressures faced by retirees and will support economic activity by allowing them to spend a greater share of their income. The debate emphasizes the balance between providing tax relief to vulnerable populations and ensuring the sustainability of state revenue.