Welcome to my web site!  I want to use this technology to communicate with you.  I believe that communication is a two-way street; if you have something you want to say to me, then call 816 246-5023 or email me at will@willkraus.com .  Please come back often as I will keep this site updated.

I also want to use my opportunity in public office to help you.  One of the best ways to help struggling citizens is to pass legislation that gives them a tax break.  I’ve done that in the past, and I’ll continue to pursue that goal in the future if I am elected to serve District 8 in the Senate.  This year in the House of Representatives, I’ve introduced legislation to provide a tax break to families; last year, I passed legislation to provide a tax break to military pensioners and to help public service retirees. 

A Tax Cut for Struggling Families
Currently, Missouri allows a dependency exemption from state income taxes of $1,200 for each qualified child.  To help families, I filed a bill, HB 1227, that would increase the exemption to $2,000 for each dependent claimed by a resident. In January, I presented my bill for a public hearing in the Committee for Tax Reform. 

Even though the cost of living has greatly increased, this exemption has not been raised for over ten years.  Increasing the amount would put Missouri in line with adjoining states such as Kansas, where the exemption is $2050, and Illinois, where the exemption is $2000.  It would still be significantly below the federal exemption of $3650.

Bread winners work hard to bring home a paycheck, but still have difficulty paying for all of the things that their children need.  This bill would allow families to keep more of their hard-earned money to spend on groceries, school supplies, and children’s clothing. 

At the hearing, it was noted that no special interests were represented in any testimony to the Tax Reform Committee.  It was simply your representative at the microphone, advancing legislation to help families in these difficult times.

A Tax Cut for Our Military Personnel and Public Employees
My efforts to fight for the taxpayer were successful in the 2009 session of the House of Representatives when I sponsored HB 82.  Signed into law, this legislation phases out the state income tax on military pensions. 

When our country has faced threats, the members of our military have always stepped up, putting their lives at risk to preserve our liberty. For the men and women who have spent their lives in service to our country, the Missouri legislature stepped up and gave them a tax break.  They deserve it.

The bill also contained language to help recipients of public retirement benefits, who were given the phased-in tax break in 2008.  HB 82 made our state a more attractive residence for both retired military personnel and public employees.

I am so fortunate to serve in the House of Representatives and have the opportunity to fight these fights.  I hope to continue these efforts to serve you in the Missouri Senate.

Sincerely,
Will Kraus