LANSING – In a move to lessen the burden on Michigan's military families while their loved ones fight overseas, State Representative Kate Ebli (D-Monroe) today announced her support of a House proposal to indefinitely extend the state income tax check-off option that has raised millions of dollars for the Military Family Relief Fund. That proposal passed the House on Thursday.
"The state income tax check-off option is entirely voluntary, and provides Michigan residents with the opportunity to show their gratitude to our veterans," Ebli said. "When our military servicemen and women are called to active duty, their families often make tremendous financial and personal sacrifices. Funds raised through this tax check-off option help military families pay for everyday expenses before they pile up and become a financial burden."
More than 53,500 Michigan residents used the check-off option on their state tax returns in 2004 (the most recent year for which numbers are available), donating more than $1.2 million to service-member families. The option is set to expire after this tax year. The proposal to indefinitely extend the option, which passed the House with bipartisan support, now heads to the Senate for action.
The Military Family Relief Fund provides up to $2,000 a year for the families of Michigan servicemembers on active duty or who have suffered an illnesss or disability on active duty. The Military Family Relief Fund, administered by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, distributes the money to struggling families for clothing, food, housing, utilities, medical services or prescriptions, vehicle payments or other necessities. A small part of the money raised from the check-off option goes to assist residents of the state's two veterans' homes in Grand Rapids and Marquette.
"This fund plays a vital role in supporting families who are struggling financially while their loved ones are away fighting for our country," Ebli said. "This plan is the right thing to do."