(TRENTON) – Legislation 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 was approved on Monday by the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
“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 to those who have served their country,” said Cryan (D-Union). “Their service to the America people will never go overlooked. With this small change, we can support the organizations whose mission is to support our 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 in this state to our service men and women,” said Johnson (D-Bergen). “The programming and service they offer is incomparable due to their consistent involvement in the lives of the military. 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 finding ways to adjust to civilian life. A small adjustment on our part would help in a larger way to support the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms of everyday American life.”
The bill defined “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 measure now heads to the Assembly Speaker for further consideration.