The Society had a bill introduced before the Louisiana Legislature (HB 7, Louisiana IT 540) that will allow taxpayers the opportunity to donate $1 or more with their individual state income tax return to help fund programs and services for people with MS in Louisiana! Not only can individuals donate a portion of their refund, they will also have the opportunity to make a donation should they owe taxes.
Donations to the National MS Society will serve nearly 10,000 families in Louisiana impacted by MS. Personal stories and testimonies were a major contributing factor to this success and revealed the daily challenges of living with MS. The program will start in tax year 2010. In order for this truly be successful, the Society urges individuals to continue its advocacy and MS Awareness efforts by contacting and spreading the word to family, friends co-workers and accountants to make sure the donation box gets checked on the return forms. Help keep this momentum going!
Major Provisions for HB 7:
- HB 7 was introduced by Representative Wayne Waddell, Shreveport, District 5.
- Allows individuals to make a donation to the National MS Society by simply checking a box on their Louisiana income tax return.
- Begins in tax year 2010.
- A special escrow account has been established by the Louisiana Department of Treasury to remit funds to the National MS Society, Louisiana every 120 days.
- The National MS Society must maintain at least $10,000 each year to remain on IT 540 Louisiana State Income Tax Return.
- There will be a 1% processing fee.
HB 7 Timeline:
- March 29, 2010 - Louisiana Legislative Session opened.
- April 27, 2010 – HB 7 was passed by the House Ways and Means Committee with no objections.
- May 5, 2010 – HB 7 was passed by the full House of Representatives with no objections.
- May 24, 2010 – HB 7 passed by the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee with no objections.
- June 4, 2010 – HB 7 was passed by the Senate with a 31-1 vote.
- June 19, 2010 – Governor signed the bill.