Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.
Impact
If enacted, A2712 will create a dedicated, nonlapsing fund managed by the state to provide grants of up to $2,500 for essential costs such as food, housing, and medical services. Funding for the relief fund will come not only from voluntary taxpayer contributions but also from state appropriations, grants, and federal funding, potentially expanding the available resources for military families in need. The funds will be annually appropriated to the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to support this initiative.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2712 proposes the establishment of the 'New Jersey Military Family Relief Fund' aimed at providing financial assistance to military families. The bill allows taxpayers to designate part of their New Jersey gross income tax return to contribute voluntarily to this fund. Through this mechanism, the bill seeks to enhance support for families of service members, members of the National Guard, and veterans who may be facing financial hardships.
Contention
One notable aspect of the bill is the role of the Adjutant General, who will oversee the grant application process, establish eligibility requirements, and adjudicate appeals from applicants. This centralized approach helps ensure a consistent application of qualifications but may also lead to debates about the adequacy of funding and the discretionary powers held by the Adjutant General. The bill includes provisions stipulating that grants will only be disbursed once every 12 months to qualified applicants, which may raise concerns regarding the sufficiency of assistance for families in ongoing need.
Same As
Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.
Carry Over
Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.
Carry Over
Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.