http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/veterans-012015-s5.jpgOn Veterans Day, we honor the service of all U.S. military veterans who answered the call to serve and defend our nation. Hmong who served in Special Guerilla Units during the Vietnam War also recognized.

MADISON, WI – 100 years ago on November 11th, President Woodrow Wilson observed the first Armistice Day marking the end of World War I. Today, Americans recognize this important date as Veterans Day and honor the service of all U.S. military veterans who answered the call to serve and defend our nation.

As part of the Veterans Day observance, Senator Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) and Representative Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska) are introducing LRB 3504 to make it easier for veterans and surviving spouses to receive the Veterans and Surviving Spouse Property Tax Credit.

“The men and women who answered the call to serve have earned our respect and should be able to receive the tax credits that are available to them,” said Senator Shilling. “This legislation eliminates burdensome red tape and makes the process more accurate, efficient and timely for veterans and surviving spouses. I appreciate the input from local residents who reached out and brought this idea to our attention. Together, we can ensure Wisconsin veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned.”

Currently, in order for veterans who rent to receive the tax credit, there must be an explicit agreement between the landlord and tenant allowing the renter to pay property taxes directly to the municipality. If this agreement doesn’t exist, veterans and surviving spouses who rent do not receive this tax credit. This technicality prevents many veterans or surviving spouses from receiving the financial relief they deserve. LRB 3504 would change the law to allow renters to claim the tax credit directly without an agreement with landlords and property owners.

In addition to the Veterans Property Tax Credit proposal, Sen. Shilling recently introduced the Hmong Veteran Recognition Bill that would expand the definition of veteran Wisconsin statutes to include individuals who served in Special Guerilla Units during the Vietnam War. The bill has received bipartisan support and is currently waiting to be scheduled for a public hearing.