Wisconsin Senate Bill SB853

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/26/23
• Refer: 12/26/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Creating an individual income tax checkoff for donations to the Wisconsin Fire & EMS Memorial, Inc., and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

This bill, once enacted, will amend existing statutes related to voluntary income tax checkoffs. It will allow the Department of Revenue to include a new designated checkoff on tax forms aimed at raising funds specifically for the preservation and reverence of the state's firefighters and emergency personnel as part of the state’s broader fiscal policy. The intention is not only to secure necessary funds for the memorial but also to provide a structured way for taxpayers to express their appreciation for the contributions made by these crucial emergency services.

Summary

Senate Bill 853 proposes the establishment of an individual income tax checkoff specifically for donations to the Wisconsin Fire & EMS Memorial, Inc. The purpose of this memorial is to support the construction, maintenance, and enhancement of a tribute honoring firefighters and emergency medical service personnel. Taxpayers will have the option to designate a portion of their tax refund or payment to this checkoff, with the expectation that it will serve as a permanent addition to the current income tax forms, which are limited to a maximum of ten checkoffs per form under existing regulations.

Contention

Notable points of concern regarding SB853 include the existing limitation of ten checkoffs on tax forms, which may require the removal of a current checkoff to accommodate the new one. Critics might argue that adding another checkoff could potentially dilute funding for existing charitable causes associated with other checkoffs. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the prioritization of state funds and how effectively the collected money will be utilized. Given past discussions surrounding the allocation of taxpayer dollars, transparency and accountability in the use of the new donations could become significant focal points during deliberations and public discussions.