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Rhoades
Measure Would Exempt Active Military Personnel
from Some
School District Taxes
HARRISBURG -- Senator
James J. Rhoades (R-29) introduced legislation today that would exempt an active
member of the United States armed forces from certain local taxes.
Specifically, the measure would prohibit levying or assessing an occupational
assessment tax, a per capita tax, and a poll or any similar head tax against any
member of the military who is on active duty outside the Commonwealth.
Rhoades introduced Senate Bill 871 during a news
conference with other senators who announced a bi-partisan package of
legislation to address state assistance to military personnel, veterans and
their families.
In his remarks during the news conference, Rhoades
noted that one of his constituents, an Army sergeant currently serving in Iraq,
recently received a school occupation assessment tax and a per capita tax
notice. The sergeant and his family were also informed by his school district
that he was no longer exonerated from these local taxes despite his active
military duty.
"At a time when we are at war, when our brave
soldiers are sacrificing their lives and defending our nation, I find it to be a
travesty that some are placing an additional burden on these soldiers and their
families," Rhoades said. "This legislation is necessary to ensure that
Pennsylvania's military families never have to go through this situation again.
In a small way, it honors our military soldiers for their hard work and
unwavering principles. And for that, we as a people should offer our thanks,
and most certainly not burden them further with a tax bill."
 
Sen. Jim Rhoades (R-Schuykill),
left, meets with Capitol Police Sergeant Frank Rice, center, and Sen. Bob
Robbins (R-Mercer), right, after a news conference at the State Capitol on
Sept. 21. Rhoades introduced legislation at the news conference that would
exempt active military personnel from certain school taxes. Senate Bill 871
was prompted after Rice's son, Sgt. First Class Christopher Rice of
Schuylkill County, who is currently serving with the U.S. Army in Iraq,
received tax bills from his local school district and was informed that he
was no long exempt.
Related Links:
9/21/05 - Legislation
to Help Military/Vets Unveiled
9/21/05 -
Jubelirer on Support for National Guard
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