LANSING – In a move to lessen the burden on Michigan's military families while their loved ones fight overseas, State Representative Richard LeBlanc (D-Westland) today announced his proposal to indefinitely extend the state income tax check-off option that has raised millions of dollars has passed the House unanimously.
"When the brave members of our armed forces are called upon to serve in active duty, their families often have to make tremendous financial and personal sacrifices," LeBlanc, Chair of the State Police and Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, said. "The state income tax check-off option provides our residents an opportunity to show their gratitude and help our military families with those everyday expenses that can quickly become a financial hardship."
More than 53,500 Michigan residents used the option in 2004 (the most recent year for which numbers are available), donating more than $1.2 million to service-member families. The option is set to expire after this tax year. LeBlanc's proposal, which passed the House with bipartisan support, now heads to the Senate for action.
The check-off option provides up to $2,000 a year for the families of Michigan service members on active duty or who have suffered an illnesss or disability on active duty. The Military Family Relief Fund, administered by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, distributes the money to struggling families for clothing, food, housing, utilities, medical services or prescriptions, vehicle payments or other necessities. A small part of the checkoff money goes to assist residents of the state's two veterans' homes, in Grand Rapids and Marquette.
"We must support our service members and their families for what they do for our country," LeBlanc said. "The option for our residents to use their tax dollars to help our military families should be available. This money can make a big difference for our families who are struggling financially while their loved ones are away fighting for our freedom."