PNGAS Adopts FY26 Legislative Priorities

The Pennsylvania National Guard Association (PNGAS) has formally adopted its FY26 Legislative Priorities, a focused slate of state and federal bills and budget requests that advance the readiness of the force, strengthen benefits for veterans, and support the families who stand alongside our Guard members. These priorities reflect the PNGAS mission to support, advocate for, and strengthen the Pennsylvania National Guard and its members, veterans, and families through legislative action and community partnership.

Our Top State Priorities

• DMVA Budget Increase for the Keystone Challenge Academy — An additional $250,000 in the 2026/2027 budget to fund the Academy's structure, education, and mentorship for Pennsylvania youth. Status: Passed the House; advancing to the Senate floor.
• House Bill 1257 — Expanding the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Abatement Program, exempting 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans from property taxes, with optional local relief for lower ratings and an extension to certain surviving spouses. Status: Passed the House; referred to the Senate State Government Committee.
• Senate Bill 655 — A Personal Health Investment Tax Credit allowing eligible Guard members and other service members to claim a credit for qualified physical fitness expenses, encouraging personal readiness and health. Status: Seeking support.
• House Bill 2011 — A TRICARE Reimbursement Grant Program providing grants of up to $60 per month toward premiums paid for TRICARE Reserve Select and TRICARE Dental coverage. Status: Pending in the House Veterans & Emergency Preparedness Committee.

Legislation We Strongly Support

• House Bill 1102 — Improving National Guard medical and specialty officer incentives by expanding tuition reimbursement to JAG officers and chaplains and refining the list of eligible medical and health officers under a tiered structure. Status: Passed the House; in the Senate Veterans & Emergency Preparedness Committee.
• House Bill 1144 — Increasing the monthly pension benefit for amputee, blind, and paralyzed veterans by $50 (from $150 to $200 per month). Status: Passed the House; in the Senate Veterans & Emergency Preparedness Committee.
• House Bill 2439 — Aligning Veteran Service Officer grant funding with the calendar year to improve planning and ensure consistent, timely service delivery for veterans. Status: Passed the House; in the Senate Veterans & Emergency Preparedness Committee.
• National Guard Spouse Education Loan Repayment Act — Allowing a Guard member's state education benefits to be applied toward repayment of a spouse's existing student loans. Status: Seeking co-sponsorship.

Our Federal Priorities

• No Tax on Military Pay (H.R. 6189 / S. 3246): The Service Members Tax Relief Act would eliminate federal income tax on active duty and reserve military pay, including drill pay, annual training pay, ADSW and ADOS pay, bonuses, and special and incentive pays, raising take-home pay and supporting recruiting and retention. Status: Referred to the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees.
• No Tax on Military Retirement Pay (H.R. 6190 / S. 1108): The Tax Cuts for Veterans Act of 2025 would eliminate federal income tax on military retirement pay and related benefits, including disability retirement pay, survivor benefits, and Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). Status: Referred to the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees.

Why It Matters

Together, these priorities strengthen the readiness of the Pennsylvania National Guard, recognize the sacrifices of our veterans, and ease the burdens carried by Guard families across the Commonwealth. PNGAS will continue to advocate for their passage and keep our members informed as each measure advances through the legislative process.

Thank you for your continued support. The Voice of Pennsylvania's National Guard.