Rep. Pillich Advocates for Connecting Ohio Veterans to Benefits

State Rep. Connie Pillich (D-Montgomery) today urged lawmakers to approve her legislation, House Bill 166, which would connect Ohio veterans to the Department of Veterans Services through income tax returns.

“This bill will provide a much needed linkage of services to the men and women who have served our state and nation so dutifully,” said Rep. Pillich.  “Too often a gap exists between our veterans and our Department of Veterans Services. By promoting the identification of veterans through income tax returns, the Department of Taxation and the Department of Veterans Services can work together to ensure our service members are connected to resources.”

House Bill 166 would allow taxpayers to indicate on an annual income tax return if they, their spouse or dependent served in active duty in the US Armed Forces during certain periods of time. If such an indication of service is made, the tax commissioner would then forward the veteran’s name, address and term of service to the Ohio Department of Veterans Services.

“I am hopeful that the legislature will act on this small, but important, step to share information with our state’s veterans on the benefits and services they deserve,” Rep. Pillich added.

Today was the first hearing of HB 166. Rep. Pillich is hopeful that the bill will have additional hearings in the House Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, on which she serves as the ranking Democratic member.