Supporting the military and protecting their families is the focus of three bills sponsored by Senator Joey Pendleton, D-Hopkinsville, this legislative session.

Money earned for active duty in the United States Armed Forces, National Guard or Reserves will not be subject to state income tax under a bill Pendleton plans to file when the General Assembly reconvenes Feb. 1.

"This bill offers support for the people who are putting their lives on the line for us," said Pendleton, a member of the legislature's Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection Committee said. "It will relieve the financial stress many of these families unfortunately face."

In addition, Pendleton has pre-filed a bill designed to protect spouses who are forced to leave their jobs because of a military transfer. It ensures that the spouse is able to qualify for unemployment benefits.

"Many times when a service man or woman is transferred by the military, their spouse loses a job," Pendleton said. "Senate Bill 33 will ensure that the spouse can receive unemployment benefits in Kentucky, again protecting military families financially."

Senate Bill 34, which was also pre-filed, would exempt all military pensions from state income tax.

"Right now there is a cut-off line above a certain income level for this exemption. I feel that all military pensions should be exempt from state income tax," said Pendleton, who represents Logan County in the Senate. "This is our chance to provide these families much-needed relief."

Pendleton is also co-sponsoring Senate Bill 50, a "veterans right to know" bill that is designed to ensure that Kentucky's veterans are fully informed about their benefits and how to qualify and apply for them.

"I will continue to fight for veterans across the state," Pendleton said. "These men and women are a top priority for me."

Part of Fort Campbell military base is in his district.

The legislature reconvenes on Feb. 1.