(TRENTON) – The full Assembly passed legislation on Thursday sponsored by Assembly Democrats Craig J. Coughlin, Joseph Cryan, Gordon Johnson and Andrew Andrejczak to exempt veterans’ organizations which organize as corporation under the “New Jersey Nonprofit Corporation Act,” from paying the annual report filing fee.
“Veteran organizations’ provide valuable services to our military returning home,” said Coughlin (D-Middlesex). “Removing some of government’s red tape is the least we can do to help them help others.”
“This is an opportunity to say thank you to those who have served their country,” said Cryan (D-Union). “Their service to the American people will never go overlooked. With this small change, we can support the organizations whose mission is to support veterans’ needs during and after service.”
Under current law, nonprofit corporations must pay a $25 annual report filing fee. Under the bill (A-810), veterans’ organizations which organize as nonprofit corporation must still file the annual report required, but are exempted from the fee.
“Many of these organizations have a long history of service to the service men and women in this state,” said Johnson (D-Bergen). “The programming and service they offer is incomparable. Relieving these organizations from fees when filing annual reports would streamline the process and make it easier for these organizations to continue their important work.”
“Veteran organizations are a lifeline for many military families post service,” said Andrejczak (D-Cape May, Atlantic, Cumberland). “The work they do is vital in this state especially today when many are returning from service and readjusting to civilian life. With a small adjustment on our part, we can help the organizations that support the men and women who put their lives on the line for us.”
The bill defines “veterans’ organization” to mean the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, or other veterans’ organizations charted under federal law, or any service foundations of an organization recognized in its bylaws.
The Assembly approved the measure 74-0.