Jun. 26, 2017
HARRISBURG – The Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee and its chairman, Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware), unanimously supported a bill that would provide a property tax exemption for the surviving spouses of soldiers who are killed in action (KIA) or died as a result of injury during active military service.
“During a discussion about property tax reform for veterans, we found out that veterans who are 100 percent disabled during a period of war can qualify to have their property taxes exempted. But, the spouse of someone who is KIA does not qualify,” Barrar said. “It was an alarming discovery, and one we’ve been working to rectify.”
The bill was amended to clarify that the additional benefit provided is related to any war or armed conflict in which the United States is engaged.
Another piece of legislation that was approved at this week’s committee meeting would prevent veterans’ disability payments and pension from being counted as income for Commonwealth programs and benefit determinations. Lastly, a third bill would codify the oversight of the Pennsylvania Civil Air Patrol under the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
As all bills received unanimous support in committee, they will now face a vote in the House.
To view footage of the House Veterans’ Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee’s meeting, click here.
Representative Stephen E. Barrar
160th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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