Messmer Column: Supporting Armed Forces

Local Sources- On this week's Messmer Column, State Senator Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) talks Supporting Armed Forces.

As a member of the Indiana General Assembly, I always work hard to help the men and women who serve our nation.

These men and women continuously put themselves in danger to protect the lives of all Americans, and their selfless actions defend the freedoms we hold dear from tyranny across the world.

Because of their dedication to service, I was honored to support House Enrolled Act 1034, which exempts members of all branches of the military from paying the state income tax.

This means members of the United States Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard and Indiana National Guard will not have to pay any state income taxes on their military pay if the service member resides in Indiana.

House Enrolled Act 1034 will allow those serving in the military to keep their hard-earned money in their own pockets. I believe this will not only keep Hoosier soldiers from moving away, but it will also help attract more active-duty personnel to Indiana.

This legislation received unanimous support from the Indiana General Assembly earlier this year and has been signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb.

It will be fully implemented on Jan. 1, 2024 and will impact the wages of military personnel for tax years beginning in 2024 and thereafter.

House Enrolled Act 1034 only applies to the state income tax.

Information on benefits available to Hoosier veterans can be found online at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Veterans.

As always, feel free to contact my office directly with your questions and concerns by email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-382-9467.