Louisiana Senate Bill SR239

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/17/18
• Passed: 5/18/18

Caption

Requests the Department of Revenue to streamline the process by which it determines the residency of active duty military personnel stationed in Louisiana.

Impact

The resolution suggests improving bureaucratic procedures to assist military members in managing their tax obligations. By streamlining the residency determination process, the Department of Revenue would reduce the likelihood of erroneous tax notices for military personnel who are supposed to be exempt from state taxes based on their home of record. The intent is to create a more supportive environment for service members, acknowledging their sacrifices while ensuring they are not subjected to undue administrative burdens.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 239 urges the Louisiana Department of Revenue to enhance the processes for determining the residency status of active duty military personnel stationed in the state. Recognizing that Louisiana hosts several military bases, the bill acknowledges that many personnel maintain a home of record outside of Louisiana, and thus are exempt from state income tax. However, the current system’s inefficiencies can lead to tax notifications that add unnecessary stress for these individuals, particularly during deployments.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SR239 appears favorable among lawmakers and community stakeholders who advocate for military personnel’s welfare. The resolution demonstrates a commitment to supporting service members and resolving any tax-related issues they face in a timely manner. There's a general consensus that simplifying the interaction with the tax agency and providing clearer instructions will benefit active duty military personnel living in Louisiana.

Contention

There are no noticeable points of contention directly associated with SR239, as it primarily seeks to support military personnel rather than impose new requirements or restrictions. The bill fosters cooperation between the state government and military personnel, and while specific opposing voices are not noted, the effectiveness of implementing these streamlined processes will ultimately determine the resolution's success.