Sacramento, CA – Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) is proud to announce his 2025 Veterans bill package, aimed at addressing critical issues facing California’s military families, retirees, Veterans, and Veteran-owned businesses. The package reflects a steadfast commitment to honoring those who have served our country and ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
“California is home to hundreds of thousands of military Veterans, retirees, and their families, all of whom have made tremendous sacrifices for our state and nation,” said Senator Seyarto. “This legislative package ensures we remove unnecessary burdens, enhance educational opportunities, and provide financial relief to those who have given so much.”
The 2025 Veterans bill package includes the following key legislation:
- SB 1 – Tax Relief for Military Retirees and Survivors
Seeks to eliminate state taxes on military retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments. With over 27,000 military survivors receiving SBP payments and more than 141,000 military retirees in California, this measure provides overdue relief for families and survivors who have already paid the ultimate price. By joining the other 49 states that already exempt these payments from taxation, SB 1 increases California’s support for its military community. - SB 56 – Enhancing Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption
Removes a Veteran’s disability pay from the calculation of the Low Income Exclusion of the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption. This bill ensures that families relying on Social Security and disability compensation qualify for this crucial relief. - SB 60 – Expanding the CalVet Fee Waiver and California GI Bill
Clarifies that extended education courses, which meet the requirements of undergraduate degree programs at California public universities, are covered by the CalVet Fee Waiver and California GI Bill. This will help Veterans and their families pursue higher education without unnecessary financial barriers. - SB 67 – Cal Grant Eligibility for Military Dependents
Guarantees that dependents of active-duty military members can access Cal Grant benefits, even if they graduate from high schools outside of California, as long as the service member has maintained California as their legal residence and the dependents meet other eligibility criteria. This ensures educational opportunities are not hindered by the unique challenges military families face. - SB 70 – Supporting Veteran-Owned and Small Businesses
Increases the maximum contract value under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act from $250,000 to $350,000 and ties future adjustments to the California Consumer Price Index (CPI). This update ensures that small businesses and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises can effectively compete for larger contracts.
In addition to these bills, Senator Seyarto will also introduce a resolution to recognize August 7, 2025, as Purple Heart Day in California in honor of the many service members and Veterans injured or killed by enemy actions in service to our country.
Senator Seyarto is proud to serve California’s 32nd District, home to one of California’s largest Veteran populations.