Bill > SB2445

This bill, known as the Strengthening Troop Retention for Our National Guard (STRONG) Act, introduces three key provisions to support Mississippi National Guard members. First, it increases the income tax exemption for National Guard and Reserve Forces compensation from $15,000 to $25,000 starting in 2025, providing additional financial relief for service members. Second, the bill creates a $500 annual credit for motor vehicle license tag fees for Mississippi National Guard members, their spouses, or dependents, which can be applied to one or more vehicles owned by the service member. Third, the bill establishes the Mississippi National Guard Tricare Premium Reimbursement Program, which will provide grants to actively drilling National Guard members to help cover their Tricare Reserve Select health care plan premiums. The program aims to enhance medical readiness, support service members' healthcare needs, and ultimately improve personnel retention by offering financial assistance for health insurance. The Adjutant General will be responsible for administering the program and will be required to provide an annual report to the Legislature detailing its effectiveness and impact.

Military Affairs and Security

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2445.xml