October 3, 2005
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today signed legislation that will allow citizens to help support the Children's Trust Fund, a nonprofit organization run by the Department of Human Services (DHS) dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and neglect. The legislation reinstates the income tax check-off that allows taxpayers to donate to the fund.
"Michigan's children are our greatest resource," said Granholm. "I am proud to sign legislation that will allow every citizen to join in the fight to protect and nurture them."
From 1983 until 2000, Michigan taxpayers had the opportunity to donate $2 on their income tax return to support the Children's Trust Fund. The check-off had to be discontinued after 2000, because the trust fund balance reached $20 million. Since that time, only the fund's interest and investment earnings have been disbursed. However, a continuing recession and lackluster stock market have resulted in lower earnings than anticipated, making a new check-off option necessary to continue providing adequate support to Michigan's children.
Public Act 160 allows a taxpayer to dedicate a portion of his or her refund or tax liability to the Children's Trust Fund. It also removes the $20 million cap on the trust fund allowing additional revenues to be made available for children protection programs.
"The generosity of Michigan's citizens is unparalleled," said Granholm. "I know this legislation will result in significant support for programs that help protect our children from abuse and neglect."
Senate Bill 503 was sponsored by Senator Bev Hammerstrom (R-Temperance).
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