Slaughter Applauds House Action To Encourage Haiti Donations

Press Release

Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter (NY-28) applauded the House of Representatives for passing legislation that would allow charitable contributions to the victims of the earthquake in Haiti to be deducted from 2009 income taxes. This will further encourage American contributions for the relief effort, and help recognize the individual generosity.

By a voice vote, the House passed H.R. 4462, legislation that would allow individuals making charitable contributions to victims of the earthquake in Haiti to claim an itemized charitable deduction on their 2009 tax return. Without this change, donors would have to wait until next year to claim these deductions on their 2010 tax return. Donations made before March 1 of this year would be eligible.

"The generosity of the American people in the wake of the terrible tragedy in Haiti has been remarkable, and exemplifies what is best about this country. I am so pleased that the House has acted to encourage further donations," said Slaughter.

The legislation also includes a provision allowing those who text messaged a donation the ability to use a phone bill as proof of donation. The bipartisan bill was introduced yesterday by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Ranking Member Dave Camp (R-MI) joined Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC), House Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA), and 152 additional original cosponsors.

In January of 2005, Congress enacted this type of relief for individuals that made charitable contributions to victims of the Indian Ocean tsunami that occurred in late December of 2004. That bill (H.R. 241 in the 109th Congress) passed the House of Representatives without objection and subsequently passed the Senate by unanimous consent.

To donate to the victims of Haiti, visit: http://clintonbushhaitifund.org/

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