West Virginia House Bill HB2292

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23
• Refer: 2/8/23

Caption

Continuing personal income tax adjustment to gross income of certain retirees receiving pensions from defined pension plans

Impact

The proposed adjustment would play a significant role in the financial welfare of certain retirees who rely on these pension benefits. By reinstating this tax adjustment, the bill seeks to alleviate some of the financial burden faced by these individuals, especially those whose plans have been underfunded or terminated entirely. If passed, the bill will restore a fiscal mechanism that was in place before the adjustments were phased out in prior years, thereby increasing post-retirement income for affected individuals.

Summary

House Bill 2292 aims to amend tax regulations concerning retirees receiving pensions from defined benefit pension plans that have terminated. The bill reinstates a personal income tax adjustment allowing eligible retirees to subtract from their federal adjusted gross income an amount reflecting the difference between what they would have received had their pension plan not terminated and what they are actually receiving under a benefit guarantee plan. This adjustment is intended to provide financial relief to retirees who are significantly impacted by the termination of their pension plans.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2292 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents, primarily consisting of advocacy groups representing retirees and certain lawmakers focused on retirement issues. They argue that this tax relief is essential for ensuring the financial security of retirees living on fixed incomes. However, there may be concerns surrounding potential fiscal impacts on state revenue, as noted in the bill's clauses regarding revenue caps and adjustments by the Tax Commissioner.

Contention

Critics of the bill may raise issues related to the sustainability of reinstating such tax adjustments, especially in the context of state budget constraints. The provision that triggers potential revenue reductions when the adjustment costs exceed $2 million annually could be a focal point of debate, highlighting the tension between providing financial support to retirees and maintaining fiscal responsibility at the state level. Additionally, some legislators may question whether such adjustments should take precedence over other budgetary needs and expenditures.