DELIVER Act of 2024 Delivering Elderly Lunches and Increasing Volunteer Engagement and Reimbursements Act of 2024
Impact
The enactment of SB5177 would likely have a positive impact on the ability of non-profits and volunteers to serve vulnerable populations more effectively by alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with meal delivery. By aligning the charitable mileage rate with the standard business mileage rate set by the IRS, the bill seeks to make meal delivery more feasible and attractive for volunteers. This can potentially lead to increased participation in meal delivery programs, ultimately benefiting the elderly and at-risk communities across the state.
Summary
SB5177, titled the 'Delivering Elderly Lunches and Increasing Volunteer Engagement and Reimbursements Act of 2024' (the DELIVER Act), proposes an amendment to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that aims to increase the standard charitable mileage rate for individuals delivering meals to homebound elderly, disabled, frail, and at-risk individuals. The bill is put forth as a means to encourage more volunteerism and support for those in need by providing a more substantial reimbursement for the costs incurred by volunteers when they deliver meals.
Contention
While the bill generally aims to promote volunteerism and support for the elderly, there may be some contention regarding the funding sources and overall budget implications of increasing the charitable mileage reimbursement rates. Critics might argue whether this increased mileage rate is sustainable or if it may divert funds from other critical services. Additionally, some stakeholders could be concerned about the resilience of existing volunteer structures if reimbursement rates are perceived as insufficient or overly bureaucratic.