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Tax Fairness for Survivors Act

3/12/2025, 3:08 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1306

Bill 119 hr 1306, also known as the "Survivors' Bill of Rights Act of 2021," aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross income any judgments, awards, and settlements related to sexual assault or sexual harassment claims. This means that individuals who receive financial compensation for these types of claims would not have to pay taxes on that money.

The bill is designed to provide support and protection for survivors of sexual assault and harassment by ensuring that they are not financially burdened by taxes on any compensation they receive as a result of their experiences. This includes not only monetary awards from legal proceedings, but also settlements reached outside of court.

In addition to excluding these types of compensation from gross income, the bill also includes provisions for the confidentiality of settlements and awards related to sexual assault and harassment claims. This is intended to protect the privacy and well-being of survivors, allowing them to seek justice without fear of public scrutiny. Overall, Bill 119 hr 1306 seeks to provide financial relief and support for survivors of sexual assault and harassment, while also promoting accountability and justice for those who commit these harmful acts.

Congressional Summary of HR 1306

Tax Fairness for Survivors Act 

This bill excludes certain payments related to sexual assault or sexual harassment claims from gross income for federal tax purposes.

Specifically, the bill excludes from gross income amounts received by an individual from a judgment, award, or settlement of a claim (including backpay, frontpay, punitive damages, attorney’s fees, or any payments made to release, resolve, or settle a claim) related to sexual harassment or a nonconsensual sexual act or sexual contact. Further, under the bill, such amounts are not wages or compensation and, thus, not subject to certain payroll taxes (Social Security, railroad retirement, and unemployment insurance).

Under current law, amounts received from a judgment, award or settlement of a claim may be excluded from gross income if attributable to a personal physical injury or physical sickness. However, under current law, compensatory and other amounts received from a judgment, award or settlement unrelated to a personal physical injury or physical sickness generally are included in gross income. (Some exceptions apply.)

Current Status of Bill HR 1306

Bill HR 1306 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 13, 2025. Bill HR 1306 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 13, 2025.  Bill HR 1306's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. as of February 13, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1306

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
1
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
1
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1306

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1306

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross income any judgments, awards, and settlements with respect to sexual assault or sexual harassment claims, and for other purposes.
To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross income any judgments, awards, and settlements with respect to sexual assault or sexual harassment claims, and for other purposes.

Comments

Magdalena Hoyle profile image

Magdalena Hoyle

971

1 year ago

So excited about this bill! It could really make a difference for so many people. Can't wait to see how it all plays out. #excited #change #HRBill1306