Representative Thomas praises "Home Base Iowa Initiative"

As Memorial Day approaches, State Representative Roger Thomas is praising the Iowa Legislature for passing many of the Governor's recommendations of the "Home Base Iowa Initiative."  
 
The legislature approved exempting military retirement pay from state individual income taxes.  In addition, the initial fee for all military license plates is eliminated; however, the annual fee will remain intact at the cost of $5.00.    

Private sector employers are allowed to grant a preference in hiring and promotion for veterans and some spouses; and the various professional and occupational licensure boards are required to match up military training to current licensure requirements.  Community colleges and the three state Regents universities are also required to report annually regarding the award of educational credits to veterans for military education, training, and experience for the prior five academic years.  The initial report is due to the Legislature and Governor's Office by December 15, 2015.  

The Legislature also approved several other bills related to veterans that were not part of the Home Base Iowa Initiative, including exempting state individual income taxes from military survivor benefits,  expanding eligibility and financing options for the Military Homeownership Assistance program and improved reporting requirements for sexual assaults within the Iowa National Guard.