OU Applauds Louisiana House for Passing Tax Credit Legislation

02 Apr 2012

THE ORTHODOX UNION APPLAUDS THE LOUISIANA HOUSE FOR PASSING TAX CREDIT LEGISLATION

Today, the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (“Orthodox Union”) — the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization — commended the Louisiana House of Representatives for passing educational tax credit legislation (House Bill 969).

House Bill 969, which was introduced by Representative Kirk Talbot, authorizes a rebate for taxpayers who donate to certain school tuition organizations that provide scholarships to students entering non-public schools. This program is a win-win for students — who are able to have a choice in their education, and for taxpayers — who are able to receive tax credits for funding these scholarships.

Under HB 969, scholarships are provided to students whose family income is less than 250 percent of the Federal poverty level, and who are entering kindergarten or transferring to a nonpublic school. Meanwhile, taxpayers receive a 100 percent tax credit for their donations.

The Orthodox Union praises the Louisiana House of Representatives for increasing school choice opportunity for all, and is especially thrilled for the positive impact the legislation can have on tuition affordability.

Jesse Hervitz, Orthodox Union Deputy Director of Political Affairs stated: “By approving this legislation, the Louisiana House is moving one step closer to providing an excellent opportunity, not only for students to choose the best educational options, but also towards incentivizing private financial assistance for scholarships. This legislation can impact the availability of funds for Jewish day school students and families who are otherwise struggling to keep up with educational costs. We commend the Louisiana House of Representatives, and specifically Rep. Kirk Talbot, and look forward to working with the Louisiana Senate to ensure the bill’s final passage.”

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