(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Bob Andrzejczak and Wayne DeAngelo to allow taxpayers to voluntarily contribute money to help New Jersey military personnel and families in need of assistance is advancing was recently approved by an Assembly panel.
“Far too often the families of the brave men and women sacrificing to defend this country suffer financial and other difficulties because a provider is off on active duty,” said Andrzejczak (D-Cape May, Atlantic, Cumberland). “This would be a voluntary and simple way to help those families in need. It’s the least we can do to lend a helping hand to those defending our freedom.”
The bill (A-2943) establishes the ‘New Jersey Yellow Ribbon Fund” and would allow voluntary contributions on gross income tax returns to charitable organizations that support active duty members of the New Jersey National Guard and Reserve and their families.
“Our military personnel deserve our best, and this is one way to encourage people to support making that reality,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer, Middlesex). “Giving people the chance to contribute money to help military families in need is the right thing to do and sends the message that we care and will do what we can to help.”
The fund will provide for support including, but not limited to, defraying the costs of food, housing, medical services, and other expenses to the active duty members of the United States Armed Forces, the reserve components thereof, and the National Guard from New Jersey and their families affected by extended deployment during Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
The Assembly Military and Veteran Affairs released the bill during a morning committee meeting.