Virginia Senate Bill SB183

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/8/24

Caption

Income tax, state; eligible low-income taxpayers to claim a refundable tax credit.

Impact

If enacted, SB183 will significantly influence state tax law by introducing a refundable tax credit mechanism into the existing income tax framework. This change will likely improve financial conditions for eligible households by offsetting their tax liabilities. Families who qualify under the new provisions would receive a more considerable tax relief, further enabling them to meet basic living expenses. The bill seeks to aid economically disadvantaged populations, thereby reflecting a commitment to support low-income citizens in Virginia.

Summary

SB183 amends the Code of Virginia to provide low-income taxpayers with a refundable tax credit, particularly targeting those whose Virginia adjusted gross income falls below the federal poverty guidelines. The bill intently broadens the eligibility criteria by allowing individuals and married couples to claim a higher tax credit based on their federal earned income tax credit. The legislation aims to alleviate the financial burden on lower-income families and supports those who may not possess a valid social security number by offering a pathway to claim this credit.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB183 involves the scope and efficiency of its implementation. Some lawmakers and stakeholders may express concerns about ensuring that the tax credits adequately reach all eligible individuals, particularly those lacking sufficient resources to navigate the tax filing process. Critics may argue that while the bill's intentions are commendable, challenges remain in effectively distributing benefits to marginalized communities. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the financial implications of making these credits refundable and their long-term effect on state revenue.