West Virginia House Bill HB4306

West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/22
• Refer: 1/20/22

Caption

Removing certain deductions for modification of social security income in adjusted gross income

Impact

The passage of HB4306 would mean that individuals who rely on social security benefits would see an increase in their taxable income, which could result in higher tax liabilities for many seniors and disabled residents. This change directly affects the financial landscape for recipients of social security, particularly those who may already be struggling with fixed incomes. The removal of deductions could place an additional burden on these individuals and may lead to increased public discussions about the balance of taxation and support for vulnerable populations in West Virginia.

Summary

House Bill 4306 seeks to amend the West Virginia tax code by removing certain deductions related to the modification of social security income when calculating adjusted gross income. Specifically, the bill eliminates previous deductions that allowed taxpayers to reduce their taxable income by the amount of social security benefits that were reported as part of federal adjusted gross income. This bill was introduced to simplify the state tax code and is seen as an effort to increase revenue from personal income taxes by ensuring that social security benefits are fully taxable.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB4306 is mixed. Supporters, including some legislative members, argue that the bill is a necessary adjustment to modernize the tax code and eliminate outdated provisions that no longer serve their purpose. Conversely, opponents, including advocacy groups and some local legislators, express concerns that the removal of these deductions unjustly targets low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities, thus exacerbating financial hardships. This divide reflects broader debates on taxation and social welfare in the state.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB4306 is its potential impact on low-income and elderly populations, specifically those who depend significantly on social security income for their livelihood. Critics argue that these individuals already face economic challenges, and increasing their tax burden could lead to heightened poverty levels among seniors. Furthermore, the bill raises questions about the appropriateness of taxing social security income, a benefit designed to support individuals during their retirement, which fuels ongoing debates about state tax policies and social responsibility.