LANSING – 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 for Michigan's military families while their loved ones fight overseas is on its way to Governor Jennifer M. Granholm to be signed into law.
"When the brave members of our armed forces are called upon to serve our country, their families often have to make tremendous financial and personal sacrifices," said LeBlanc, Chair of the State Police and Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. "The state income tax check-off option provides our residents an opportunity to help our military families with everyday expenses that can quickly become a financial hardship. By indefinitely extending the state income tax check-off option we will make a big difference in the lives of our military families."
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 and 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.
Since its beginning in tax year 2004, the fund has received donations totaling approximately $2.6 million with annual contributions ranging from approximately $550,000 to $1.2 million.
In addition to bipartisan support from the Legislature, the plan is supported by Department of Treasury, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, American Legion, Catholic War Veterans and Military Order of the Purple Heart.
"We must support our service members and their families for what they do for our country," LeBlanc said. "This money makes a big difference for our families who are struggling financially while their loved ones are away. I am pleased my colleagues in both the House and Senate unanimously voted to pass this legislation to bring relief to our military families."