Congresswoman Luria's Virginia Beach Strong Act Signed into Law

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Elaine Luria is proud to announce that President Trump signed her Virginia Beach Strong Act (HR 4566) into law. This bipartisan bill would make it easier for people to provide financial assistance to families of victims of the May 31 Virginia Beach mass shooting.

"Just over seven months ago, our Virginia Beach community suffered a devastating tragedy that ended in the loss of 12 innocent lives," Congresswoman Luria said. "The Virginia Beach Strong Act provides much-needed financial assistance to families who experienced the pain of losing a loved one suddenly. I am proud to represent such a resilient community, and this bipartisan and bicameral bill will now ensure that our district can continue to heal and help those affected by this tragic event."

In the aftermath of the May 31 mass shooting, the City of Virginia Beach established a fund to help victims, survivors, and their families. A technicality in the definition of charitable donation in the tax code meant that these donations likely were likely not considered tax-deductible--but now, this bill ensures that donations to immediate family members of victims of the Virginia Beach mass shooting are in fact tax-deductible. It is narrowly written and does not make any other changes to the tax code or qualifications for charitable statuses.

An active voice in working to stop preventable gun violence, Congresswoman Luria remembered the May 31 Virginia Beach shooting victims on the House floor, passed a law naming a post office after Keith Cox, and secured IRS guidance that confirmed donations received by Virginia Beach victims and their families are not considered taxable income.

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