SUBJ: Support for HB 5280
Dear Representative [Last Name],
I am writing to respectfully request your support for a revised version of HB 5280, which would extend Michigan retirement tax fairness to active duty, retired officers, and surviving spouses of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Commissioned Corps.
The revision to the current version of the bill would amend section 30(1)(e)(iv) to read: "(iv) Beginning January 1, 2026, compensation, including retirement or pension benefits, received for services as a commissioned officer in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps."
These individuals are members of the uniformed services of the United States and are recognized as veterans by the Department of Veterans Affairs.. HB 5280 is a narrow, fiscally responsible measure that simply ensures equal treatment among federally recognized uniformed services retirees.
The bill affects only a small number of Michigan residents and carries minimal fiscal impact, while correcting an inconsistency in current law. Importantly, the legislation does not create a new category of veterans or expand eligibility beyond those already recognized under federal standards.
This legislation is part of a broader effort to align Michigan law with existing federal recognition and ensure fair and consistent treatment for all who have served in qualifying uniformed service roles.
I respectfully ask that you support HB 5280 and assist in advancing the bill through the House Government Operations Committee.
Thank you for your consideration and for your service to the people of Michigan.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[City], Michigan
Member, [Your Chapter]
Dear Representative [Last Name],
I am writing to respectfully request your support for a revised version of HB 5280, which would extend Michigan retirement tax fairness to active duty, retired officers, and surviving spouses of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Commissioned Corps.
The revision to the current version of the bill would amend section 30(1)(e)(iv) to read: "(iv) Beginning January 1, 2026, compensation, including retirement or pension benefits, received for services as a commissioned officer in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps."
These individuals are members of the uniformed services of the United States and are recognized as veterans by the Department of Veterans Affairs.. HB 5280 is a narrow, fiscally responsible measure that simply ensures equal treatment among federally recognized uniformed services retirees.
The bill affects only a small number of Michigan residents and carries minimal fiscal impact, while correcting an inconsistency in current law. Importantly, the legislation does not create a new category of veterans or expand eligibility beyond those already recognized under federal standards.
This legislation is part of a broader effort to align Michigan law with existing federal recognition and ensure fair and consistent treatment for all who have served in qualifying uniformed service roles.
I respectfully ask that you support HB 5280 and assist in advancing the bill through the House Government Operations Committee.
Thank you for your consideration and for your service to the people of Michigan.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
[City], Michigan
Member, [Your Chapter]