*Editor’s note: additional information about House Bill 266 has been added to the below release.
ATLANTA – Yesterday, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, Governor Brian Kemp hosted a ceremonial bill signing at the Georgia State Capitol for House Bill 266, landmark legislation that increases the exemption for military retirement benefits for individuals under 65 from $35,000 to $65,000. The event marked a moment of celebration for veterans, lawmakers and military families across the state.
“As Georgia continues historic reductions to every citizen’s income tax and transitions to a flat tax system, this full exemption is a targeted step to support the military families who have not only served our nation but represent a prime segment of our skilled workforce,” said State Representative Steven Sainz (R–St. Marys), chairman of the House Interstate Cooperation Committee. “If we want to build a world-class workforce for Georgia’s future, we must compete for talent, and that starts by ensuring every family stationed at Kings Bay has a reason to stay within our coastal communities and thrive here. This bill helps Kings Bay families and those in other military installations across our state to do just that.”
HB 266, sponsored by Rep. Sainz, increases the exemption for military retirement benefits from $35,000 to $65,000 for individuals under the age of 65. This change means many retired veterans will see their military retirement benefits fully exempt from state income tax. Additionally, at age 65, the senior exemption, which all Georgia citizens are eligible for – also set at $65,000 – takes effect; creating a seamless transition for military families.
The ceremony was attended by a number of legislative leaders and veteran advocates, including Rep. Sainz, a primary sponsor of HB 266; State Representative Bethany Ballard (R-Warner Robins); State Representative Josh Bonner (R-Fayetteville), chairman of the House Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee; State Representative Jesse Petrea (R-Savannah), chairman of the House Human Relations and Aging Committee; State Representative David Clark (R-Buford); State Representative Karen Mathiak (R-Griffin), chair of the House State Planning and Community Affairs Committee; State Representative Shaw Blackmon (R-Bonaire), chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee; State Senator Greg Dolezal (R-Cumming), chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee; Vice Admiral (Ret.) Albert Konetzni; and Patsey Schrieber, State Senior Vice Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
“Additionally, Section 2 of this legislation expands a powerful new tool for public safety by allowing individuals and businesses to redirect their state tax liability to local police foundations,” added Rep. Sainz. “That means more resources for our local law enforcement—sheriff’s offices and police departments alike—without having to wait on decisions from Atlanta. I am grateful to Governor Kemp for signing this important legislation into law. This effort would not have reached his desk without the leadership of Speaker Burns, Lieutenant Governor Jones and the steadfast support of the House Republican Caucus—as well as many dedicated members across both chambers of the General Assembly who stood with our veterans and military families.”
“HB 266 is exactly the kind of conservative tax policy Georgia needs—honoring our veterans, shrinking government’s reach and keeping our state competitive,” said Sen. Dolezal. “It’s a win for those who served and for taxpayers across Georgia.”
“We are grateful to Governor Kemp for signing HB 266 and to the General Assembly for advancing this milestone legislation which not only honors Georgia’s military veterans but also encourages them to put down roots in Georgia and keep their considerable skills in our workforce,” said Leanna Brown, Vice President of Business Climate, Metro Atlanta Chamber. “Furthermore, the changes supporting law enforcement foundations will play an important role in helping keep our communities safe and vibrant.
Georgia is home to more than 750,000 veterans, along with several major military installations. The passage and celebration of HB 266 reaffirms the state’s commitment to honoring military service and ensuring Georgia remains one of the most welcoming states in the nation for those who have served.
For more information on HB 266, please click here.
For details on how the legislation will be implemented, please contact Rep. Sainz’s office.
*Editor’s note: photos of the bill signing will be available from on the governor’s website upon issuance.
Representative Steven Sainz represents the citizens of District 180, which includes Camden County, as well as a portion of Glynn County. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves as Chairman of the Interstate Cooperation Committee. He also serves on the Appropriations, Appropriations Subcommittee on Human Resources, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Economic Development & Tourism, Governmental Affairs, Public Safety and Homeland Security and State Properties committees.
###