Urges President and Congress to exempt Social Security benefits from federal income tax.
Impact
The resolution emphasizes that the federal taxation of Social Security, which began back in 1984, places an additional burden on beneficiaries. The document notes that single filers with incomes between $25,000 and $34,000 are liable for up to 50% of their Social Security benefits being taxed, and for incomes exceeding $34,000, up to 85% can be taxed. Since these income thresholds have not adjusted for inflation since their establishment, the resolution argues that they disproportionately affect recipients who have relied on these benefits throughout their retirement. Tax exemptions would thus offer significant relief and can help bridge the gap for financially vulnerable households relying on Social Security as their main income source.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 171 (AR171) urges Congress and the President to enact legislation that exempts Social Security benefits from federal income taxation. This resolution highlights the importance of Social Security to nearly 90% of individuals aged 65 and older, with these benefits constituting about 30% of their total income. The average monthly benefit is estimated to be around $1,907, which translates to approximately $23,000 annually for beneficiaries. AR171 argues that imposing federal taxes on these benefits disadvantages many vulnerable Americans, particularly retirees relying solely on these payments for financial stability.
Contention
A key contention surrounding this bill is the legislative pushback it could face in Congress. Although the resolution is aimed at making life easier for retirees and those dependent on Social Security, critics may argue about the implications of reducing federal tax revenue from these exemptions. Additionally, there is concern regarding how lawmakers will balance the needs of Social Security beneficiaries with broader fiscal responsibilities. Despite suggestions from federal legislation such as H.R. 9359, which similarly advocates for this tax exemption, significant debate is expected in Congress regarding the potential impacts on federal budgets and revenue streams.
Urges Congress to enact "Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024" to reimburse State and local units for public safety expenses incurred during major presidential and vice presidential candidates' visits.
Urges Congress to provide for joint session at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in honor of semiquincentennial of Declaration of Independence.