Rigell Supports Rebuilding Efforts in Philippines

Statement

Today Congressman Scott Rigell (VA-02) supported legislation to incentivize American assistance for disaster relief in the Philippines and allow donations made before March 1, 2014 to be deducted on 2013 taxes. H.R. 3771, the Philippines Charitable Giving Assistance Act, passed the House of Representatives this evening. Companion legislation passed in the Senate earlier this month.

"Our nation continues to mourn the heartbreaking devastation and loss of life that resulted from Typhoon Haiyan," said Rigell, who had the privilege of meeting with His Excellency Jose Lampe Cuisia, Jr., Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines, following the typhoon which displaced at least 4.1 million people and killed more than 6,200 in the Philippines. "The US Navy and Marines worked diligently to provide relief in this region during the immediate aftermath of the storm, and Americans have given from their own pockets to help those in need, but to be certain, more work remains. Our friends in the Philippines still need our help as they rebuild and restore their communities, and this important legislation will help incentivize Americans to continue offering their support."

Currently, taxpayers can only claim a deduction for charitable contributions they made the year prior. To further assist with disaster relief, and provide an immediate tax benefit, the Philippines Charitable Giving Assistance Act would treat donations for relief efforts in the Philippines given between January 1, 2014 and March 1, 2014 as having been made on December 31, 2013, thereby allowing use of the charitable deduction when filing 2013 tax returns.

Source