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Bill

Bill

S 1910

Provides gross income tax deduction for expenses incurred by disabled veterans for service animals.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Beach and 4 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill allows disabled veterans to deduct service animal expenses from state income taxes, reducing their tax burden.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · S 1910

Legislative bill overview

S 1910 allows disabled veterans in New Jersey to claim a gross income tax deduction for expenses they incur related to service animals. This means qualifying veterans could reduce their taxable income by the amount spent on service animal care, training, maintenance, and related costs. The bill was introduced in January 2026 and is currently under review by the Senate Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee.

Why is this important

Service animals provide critical mobility, safety, and independence assistance to disabled veterans, but can cost $15,000-$30,000 to obtain and hundreds to thousands annually to maintain. A tax deduction would directly reduce the financial burden on disabled veterans, making these essential support animals more accessible. This recognizes both the public service veterans have rendered and the genuine economic hardship of obtaining necessary medical support.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: The state would lose tax revenue; fiscal impact depends on how many disabled veterans qualify and the average deduction amount—unclear if the bill defines eligibility criteria
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's scope may need clarification—does it cover all service animal types, training costs only, or ongoing care; how is "disabled" defined and verified
  • Fairness questions: Some may argue other populations with medical assistance animals (non-veterans, non-disabled individuals with disabilities) might question why this benefit is exclusively for disabled veterans

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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