Robbins Bill Extends Check Off Box for Military Family Aid

Tax refund donation program for those in need would end this year

A tax refund donation program providing assistance to Pennsylvania’s service members and their families will be extended until 2015 under Senate Bill 992 drafted by Senator Bob Robbins (R-50).

A check off box on Pennsylvania’s state income tax form that allows taxpayers to contribute refunds to the Military Family Relief Assistance Program (MFRAP) is set to expire this year. Since its inception, MFRAP has raised nearly $550,000 through the voluntary donations of tax refunds.

"My bill reauthorizes the check off box on the income tax form for MFRAP. This program provides essential support for Pennsylvania’s military service members and their families during times of financial hardship," said Senator Robbins, who serves as vice chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee.

MFRAP provides grants to eligible Pennsylvania service members and family members who have a direct and immediate financial need as a result of military service such as:

A sudden or unexpected loss of income directly related to military service.
Emergency need for child care for which the applicant lacks financial resources.
Natural or man-made disasters resulting in a need for food, shelter or other necessities.
The death or critical illness of a parent, spouse, sibling or child resulting in immediate need for travel, lodging or subsistence for which the applicant lacks financial resources.

"This program provides an important safety net for service members and their families," Senator Robbins said. "They stand up for us during times of crisis. The Military Family Relief Assistance Program is a way for the people of Pennsylvania to show our gratitude by helping them when they face a financial crisis."

Contact:

Michael Hengst
(717) 787-1322