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Bill

HB 1319

TO PROVIDE AN EXEMPTION FROM STATE SALES TAX FOR DISABLED VETERANS, SPOUSES OF DISABLED VETERANS, AND SURVIVING SPOUSES OF DISABLED VETERANS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Glenn Barnes and 26 co-sponsors

Bill would have eliminated Arkansas sales tax for disabled veterans and their spouses; withdrawn by sponsor before committee review in March 2025.

WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1319

Legislative bill overview

HB 1319 would have exempted disabled veterans, their spouses, and surviving spouses from paying Arkansas state sales tax on purchases. The bill was introduced in January 2025 but withdrawn by its author in March 2025 before advancing through committee.

Why is this important

Sales tax exemptions represent a significant revenue impact to state budgets while providing tangible financial relief to targeted populations. For disabled veterans and their families, eliminating sales tax could reduce the cost of living and healthcare expenses, though the fiscal scope depends on how "disabled" is defined and how many Arkansans qualify.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: State revenue loss from the exemption could affect funding for education, infrastructure, or other services unless offset by other measures
  • Eligibility definition: The bill's language on what constitutes a "disabled veteran" and verification methods would determine the actual cost and beneficiary population
  • Fairness considerations: Questions about whether sales tax exemptions are the most equitable way to support veterans compared to income-based benefits or direct payments, and whether other populations (low-income citizens, other service workers) should receive similar consideration

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

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