State Senator Kelly Seyarto, District 32 | Official U.S. Senate headshot
State Senator Kelly Seyarto, District 32 | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Senator Kelly Seyarto has introduced a package of bills for the 2024 legislative year aimed at supporting California's veterans. The proposed legislation includes measures to provide financial relief and educational opportunities, as well as formalizing support programs for military families.
One of the bills, SB 911, seeks to exempt taxes from the first $20,000 of Survivor Benefits Payments received by widowed spouses and children of deceased veterans. Senator Seyarto emphasized that this bill aims to protect lower-income families who have lost their primary income source. "These families and survivors have paid the highest price for our state and nation. Surely one of the simplest ways we can express our gratitude is not to tax the very compensation we give them for that loss," said Senator Seyarto.
Another bill, SB 916, proposes including extended education courses in the California Veteran Fee Waiver (CalVet Fee Waiver), which benefits spouses and children of military veterans by allowing free attendance at any California State University or University of California institution. Senator Seyarto highlighted the importance of adapting to changes in education: "We need to keep up with the changing landscape in education and the benefits military families receive to advance their quality of life."
SB 920 aims to formally establish the Purple Star School Program, which helps military families identify schools that offer specialized support for military children. Since its inception in 2021, 91 schools in California have been recognized under this program. "The Purple Star School program is a successful way for military families to be able to identify where they will meet the understanding and support they deserve for their unique needs," stated Senator Seyarto.
Additionally, SB 73, introduced last year, is still awaiting action in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. This bill would allow private businesses to establish voluntary hiring preferences for veteran employees.
Senator Seyarto represents California’s 32nd District, known for having one of the largest veteran populations in the state.
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