Curbelo Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Allow Tax Deductions for Charitable Donations to Groups Supporting Parkland Families

Statement

Earlier this week, Representative Carlos Curbelo (FL-26), South Florida's only Member on the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation with Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22) and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) that would allow donations to groups whose mission is to aid victims of the Parkland shooting and their families to qualify as charitable contributions for 2017 federal income tax purposes. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Family Support Act of 2018, which has companion legislation introduced by Florida Senators Marco Rubio and Bill Nelson, would treat contributions to organizations that collect cash contributions for the relief of the families or victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting as tax-deductible and allow them to be claimed on 2017 tax returns.

"After a disaster or tragedy, Americans often generously step up to support those suffering or in need," Curbelo said. "I saw it first-hand in my district after Hurricane Irma, and we're seeing it again now as Americans from across the country donate to support the victims and survivors of the attack in Parkland. By allowing donations to groups directly supporting the victims and families of this tragic shooting to be treated as a charitable contribution for purposes of their income taxes, we're not only incentivizing charitable donations, but also rewarding those who have already generously given to help their fellow Americans. I'm thankful to Senators Rubio and Nelson for introducing this bill in the Senate and to Representatives Deutch and Buchanan for joining as co-sponsors."

"The horrific tragedy at Stoneman Douglas shook our South Florida community," said Deutch. "But in its wake, we've seen an incredible outpouring of love and support from across the country. In the weeks and months ahead, the victims' families will continue to need our help. This legislation will help encourage continued support as we stand shoulder to shoulder with the Stoneman Douglas community."

"We should do everything we can to support charitable efforts to help Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School victims and their families," Buchanan said.

"This bill encourages charitable relief to the victims and families of the tragic Parkland shooting by allowing donations to groups directly supporting them to be treated as a charitable contribution for purposes of their 2017 or 2018 income taxes," said Rubio. "I urge my colleagues to quickly pass this bill."