Standing Up for Our Veterans – Expanding Tax Relief

Media
Aug 21
2 min read

Next week, I’ll be bringing forward an important item at our Board of Supervisors meeting: supporting AB 53 and SB 623 to expand tax relief for veterans and military families.

San Diego County is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the nation. These men and women have worn the uniform, defended our freedoms, and sacrificed for our country. Yet, California continues to be one of just five states that fully taxes military retirement pay as ordinary income. At the same time, state law limits property tax relief for veterans by prohibiting the use of multiple exemptions on a primary residence.

It’s wrong, and it needs to change.

AB 53 would exempt up to $20,000 annually of military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan annuities from state income tax. This would allow veterans and surviving spouses to keep more of what they’ve earned.
SB 623 would allow veterans and disabled veterans to claim both the homeowners’ exemption and the veterans’ or disabled veterans’ exemption on the same property. If approved by voters in 2026, this measure would provide meaningful property tax relief to those who served.

Together, these bills represent a common-sense step forward—helping veterans stay in San Diego, afford a home, and build financial security for their families. By adding the County of San Diego’s support, we reaffirm our commitment to honoring their service not just in words, but in action.

I believe this legislation is vital to ensuring San Diego remains a place where veterans can live, work, and retire with dignity. I look forward to fighting for this support at our meeting next week.