New Jersey Senate Bill SCR34

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/22
• Refer: 1/18/22

Caption

Proposes constitutional amendment to exclude military disability income from the $10,000 income limit for eligibility for the senior citizens and disabled persons property tax deduction.

Impact

If enacted, SCR34 would directly impact Article VIII, Section I, paragraph 4 of the New Jersey Constitution. The proposed change would exempt disability payments from the veterans’ administration from the income calculation that determines eligibility for the property tax deduction. By doing so, it seeks to increase the financial relief available to senior citizens and disabled persons who are veterans, making it easier for them to remain in their homes without the added burden of property taxes. This amendment could significantly benefit many veterans residing within the state.

Summary

SCR34, a Senate Concurrent Resolution introduced in New Jersey, proposes a constitutional amendment to exclude military disability income from the $10,000 income limit for eligibility for the senior citizens and disabled persons property tax deduction. This change is intended to allow veterans with service-connected disabilities to qualify for this property tax relief, which they may currently be denied due to their total annual income exceeding the specified limit. As it stands, individuals who earn more than $10,000, excluding certain social security benefits, do not qualify for this deduction. The amendment aims to adjust the financial criteria to be more inclusive of disabled veterans.

Contention

While SCR34 is designed to assist a specific group of individuals, it may attract contention regarding the implications for state revenue and the administration of tax deductions. Critics could argue that by increasing the eligibility for property tax deductions, the state might face reductions in tax income, which could impact funding for public services. Furthermore, there may be discussions surrounding fairness among different recipient groups of deductions, as this amendment could create perceptions of inequity between veterans and non-veterans seeking property tax relief.