Legislation Would Allow Donations
Through Gross Income Tax Returns
(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly
Democrats Wayne P. DeAngelo, Annette Quijano, Sgt. Robert Andrzejczak and Whip
Wilson that would allow New
Jersey taxpayers to make donations to nonprofit
veterans’ organizations via their gross income tax returns was recently approved
by an Assembly panel.
The bill
(A-2313) would establish the Fund for the Support of New Jersey Nonprofit
Veterans Organizations, to which taxpayers may indicate they would like to
donate on their tax returns. An annual grant program drawing from contributions
to the fund would assist private nonprofit veterans organizations in providing
programs and services for veterans. Many such organizations have experienced
financial hardship due to the recent economic downturn.
“Organizations like the Veterans of
Foreign Wars, the American Legion and the Marine Corps League are sources of
support and community for veterans in New Jersey,” said DeAngelo
(D-Mercer/Middlesex). “With this bill, we show our appreciation for those who
have given so much for the sake of the people of this state and this
nation.”
“As more
troops return from Afghanistan over the next few years,
veterans organizations will play a vital role in their transition to civilian
life,” said Quijano (D-Union). “Giving New Jersey residents a means to contribute to
this cause will facilitate their display of gratitude for these veterans and all
the patriotic men and women before them who have demonstrated their commitment
to our nation’s freedom.”
“Our
nation’s veterans have put their lives on the line in defense of the
United States of America,”
said Andrzejczak (D-Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland), a U.S. Army veteran who was
wounded while serving in Iraq. “This bill will help ensure
that New
Jersey residents may express their appreciation for all
veterans, no matter when or where they served.”
“Veterans organizations provide ways
for those who served to connect with one another,” said Wilson
(D-Camden/Gloucester), a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in
Vietnam and
Thailand. “This legislation will help
foster those bonds and honor the men and women who were willing to make great
sacrifices for this nation.”
The bill
was approved by the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Thursday, Oct. 2. The
Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee released the measure in
June.
