Louisiana House Bill HB274

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/1/15
• Refer: 4/1/15
• Refer: 4/13/15
• Report Pass: 5/11/15
• Engrossed: 5/20/15
• Refer: 5/21/15
• Report Pass: 6/1/15
• Enrolled: 6/9/15
• Chaptered: 7/1/15
• Passed: 7/1/15

Caption

Creates an individual income tax checkoff for the U.S.S. KIDD (EN NO IMPACT GF RV See Note)

Impact

The enactment of HB 274 adds two donation options for taxpayers in Louisiana, potentially increasing funding for the specified initiatives. The Louisiana Naval War Memorial deals primarily with the U.S.S. KIDD, which serves as a memorial for naval veterans, while The Emerge Center focuses on providing therapeutic services for children with communication and developmental challenges. By creating this checkoff system, the state legislature aims to encourage philanthropy while also diverting a portion of tax refunds to important community services, thereby impacting state-sponsored support for these organizations.

Summary

House Bill 274 introduces a mechanism for individuals filing their state income tax returns to donate a portion of their tax refunds to two specific organizations: the Louisiana Naval War Memorial Commission and The Emerge Center for Communication, Behavior, and Development. This bill facilitates donations directly through the tax return process, allowing taxpayers to contribute financially to these entities in lieu of receiving their full refunds. The bill is seen as a way to support these organizations financially while also permitting tax filers to engage in charitable acts through the tax mechanism.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 274 appears to be positive, with supporters viewing it as an innovative way to engage citizens in philanthropic activities without imposing any additional financial burden. Legislators from both sides may recognize the goodwill generated by facilitating donations through tax returns. The sentiment from advocacy groups for both organizations is likely supportive given the potential for increased funding for their causes, which tend to align with public welfare and veteran support.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill could arise from the nature of the organizations receiving funding. While veterans' memorials may garner broad-ranging support across various demographics, some may question the efficiency and necessity of state involvement in private donations. Additionally, there might be debates about the implications for taxpayers who may prefer to retain their full refunds rather than directing a portion to charitable causes, highlighting a balancing act between voluntary charitable contributions and taxpayers' rights to their refunds.