Hastings Introduces Legislation to Protect Our Servicemembers

Press Release

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL) -- Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) introduced, the Armed Forces Deferred Tax Relief Act to protect servicemembers' paychecks from President Trump's politically motivated Social Security tax deferral, as detailed in the Presidential Memorandum he issued on August 8, 2020. Members of the Armed Forces were forced to participate in the deferral, resulting in a large tax bill coming due between January and April of 2021. This bill will require the Secretary of Defense to reimburse servicemembers for any addition taxes they will face in 2021. As a result of this rogue Presidential action, servicemembers' Social Security Income Tax Withholding will double during the first four months of 2021, rising from 6.2% to 12.4%. (Please find a copy of the legislation attached):
"Active Duty servicemembers' have selflessly put their lives on the line every day to protect our freedoms," said Hastings. "This legislation will not only show our gratitude to them, but it will also correct a reckless endeavor by President Trump to use these brave men and women as political pawns in his reelection bid."

BILL SUMMARY:
The Armed Forces Deferred Tax Relief Act is to direct the Secretary of Defense to compensate members of the Armed Forces for certain taxes deferred pursuant to Internal Revenue Service Notice 2020-65. If such deferred taxes are withheld by the Secretary of Defense during the period beginning on January 1, 2021 and end by April 30, 2021, the Secretary shall make a payment to such a member in an amount equal to the deferred tax withheld.
Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.
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