Montgomery, AL – U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (AL-03), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, has expressed his strong support for a newly enacted law in Alabama that exempts deployed or mobilized troops from paying state income tax. This law, part of Alabama’s 2024 Military Bills Package, was signed by Governor Kay Ivey last Thursday.
“Governor Ivey and our talented state legislators continue to cement Alabama’s place as the most military-friendly state in the country,” said Rep. Rogers. “This law will make a real difference for our troops and their families while they are deployed or mobilized.”
Rep. Rogers also commended Representative Ed Oliver and Senator Andrew Jones for their efforts as chairmen of the House and Senate committees overseeing military and veterans’ issues. He emphasized the importance of the new law, stating, “It is unconscionable that our men and women in uniform are taxed on income earned while they are fighting for our country, and I plan to pursue further income tax exemptions for deployed and mobilized troops at the federal level.”
The 2024 Military Bills Package, recommended by Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth’s Military Stability Commission, includes ten bills designed to enhance the lives of Alabama’s military members, veterans, and their families, while strengthening the state’s defense communities.
Key provisions of the Military Bills Package include:
Tax Relief for Deployed Servicemembers
- Exempts overseas deployment pay from state income tax.
- Provides similar exemptions for National Guard and Reserve state-side mobilization pay.
Veterans’ Mental Healthcare Improvement
- Mandates the development of a plan to address Alabama veterans’ behavioral health needs, including potential pilot programs for specific services.
Military Dependent Education and Legal Needs
- Allows military dependents to enroll in athletics programs and special education services regardless of the registration cycle.
- Provides concurrent state/federal jurisdiction for crimes committed by juveniles on military installations.
Military Spouse Occupational Licensure
- Enrolls Alabama into interstate compacts for dieticians and social workers, easing occupational licensure for military spouses.
Statute and Program Modernization
- Updates the Alabama GI and Dependents Education Benefit Act.
- Modernizes the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs statute.
- Revises the Alabama Code of Military Justice.
This legislative package aims to solidify Alabama’s status as a leading state in supporting military members and veterans. By addressing various policy areas, the state continues to prioritize the well-being and quality of life for those who serve in the armed forces and their families.
