GA Gov Brian Kemp LTC Barry Gardner (GA MOAA President) COL Biff Hadden (Ft Benning Chapter President) GA First Lady Mrs Marty Kemp

LTC Barry Gardner and COL Biff Hadden attended the signing into law by Governor Brian Kemp the new retired military income tax exemption for the State of Georgia.  The ceremony was held at Ft Benning GA. 

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a law exempting up to $35,000 of military retirement income from state taxes for state residents under age 62. All residents are eligible for a $17,500 military retirement pay exemption, while those declaring Georgia-earned income up to $17,500 can declare an additional amount equal to the income claimed.

Georgia residents ages 62 to 64 can claim a $35,000 exemption on any type of retirement income, while those over 65 can exempt $65,000.

The Georgia law takes effect for the 2022 tax year.

“It was a long, hard battle, but it worked out,” said LTC Barry Gardner, USA (Ret), president of MOAA’s Georgia Council of Chapters. “Every chapter talked to their state rep, their state senator and push this, stressing the brain drain.”

Gardner gave special praise to Georgia Council Legislative Chairman Col. William "Les" Arent, USAF (Ret), who "herded from the Council level."

"He's been working this legislative affairs thing for a good seven, eight years," Gardner said. "He’s always been right there with us."

Gardner said the tax break sends a message to newly retiring military based at Georgia installations.

“You’ve served here in Georgia, and now is your chance to continue serving in the state and contribute your expertise in the state,” he said.

The bill does not address survivor benefits and does not cover members of the commissioned corps of the U.S. Public Health Service or NOAA.

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/61451    CLICK CURRENT VERSION

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McIntosh Trail Chapter now West Georgia Chapter! 

MEMBER ACTIVITIES

LTC Barry and Mrs (Gloria) Gardner had a "Chance?" meeting with the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit Van while in Springfield, IL.  They introduced themselves and were given the VIP treatment with a full escorted tour of the van. 

Great Ambassadors of West Georgia Chapter and MOAA!!! 

The Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit brings to heart the true purpose of why we all do what we do - bring local communities and our military together to share stories of patriotism and love of country, to help TEACH the next generation about service and sacrifice, and to HONOR and REMEMBER those veterans who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. To help you plan your event, we've provided some ideas below based on our experience!

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Chapter Activities

The MOAA chapter holds 10 meetings a year. (There is a break in July and August.) The meetings feature social time, a dinner, and a featured guest speaker. Speakers present topics relevant to the members such as updates on military affairs and world events along with pertinent information on prominent people and happenings in the county. A special Christmas program and party is held in December. The chapter works with two JROTC programs along with the USO in the Operation Support Program. Members actively support the Carroll County Memorial Park Association through their attendance at special programs and through contributions, both through the club and privately.

Legislative Issues

The MOAA Chapter supports the MOAA National Legislative Agenda along with the State’s Veteran issues. Elected representatives and local officials often speak to the club on these issues.

General Information

The Chapter meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month beginning at 6:30 PM at Sutton's American Grill, 477 Rome St., Carrollton, Georgia. Meetings include social time, a dinner buffet, and guest speaker. A wide variety of topics of interest are presented that include local, national, international events.