State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz recently led the Michigan House of Representatives in approving her plan to ensure the men and women who dedicate their careers to Michigan’s state prison system receive the same tax cuts approved two years ago for other first responders.

“Corrections officers dedicate their lives to ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” said Schmaltz, R-Jackson. “Their commitment to a difficult and often thankless job deserves our utmost appreciation. These dedicated public servants deserve a break in retirement. It’s the least we can do to recognize the sacrifices they’ve made and honor their service.”

In 2023, the Legislature approved a comprehensive tax relief plan designed to benefit retirees throughout Michigan. Under this plan, the state embraced a policy that grants retired police, fire, and corrections personnel the ability to fully deduct the taxes on their retirement income from their state income taxes. The corrections officers included under the plan, however, only involve those employed by a county sheriff, not the state. Schmaltz’s plan ensures those who retire from the Michigan Department of Corrections are not left behind.

Schmaltz’s House Bill 4201 will allow MDOC retirees to keep all their hard-earned retirement income by fully exempting their pension and retirement plans from the state income tax.

“By passing this bill, we send a powerful message that we value all of our first responders equally, regardless of where they served,” Schmaltz said in a speech before the vote. “We recognize the sacrifices they have made, the hardships they have endured, and the invaluable service they have provided to our state.”

“This is a first step. We need to do more to help retain our current corrections officers and attract others to the profession.”

The plan received overwhelming bipartisan support in the House. It now advances to the Senate for further consideration.