Assembly Panel Advances Burzichelli, Greenwald Bill to Create "2014 NJ Special Olympics Home Team Fund"

Voluntary Contributions Accepted through Gross Income Tax Returns

(Trenton) - Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats John J. Burzichelli and Majority Leader Louis Greenwald to allow New Jersey residents to donate a portion of their state tax refund to the 2014 NJ Special Olympics "Home Team" Fund was moved by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Special Olympics of New Jersey is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics "Home Team" will be comprised of athletes from throughout New Jersey who have qualified for selection to the team by excelling in statewide competitions. The team will represent New Jersey in the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games of which New Jersey will be the host.

"Year-round sports training and participation in many athletic competitions, they will always be winners in our eyes and in the hearts of New Jerseyans," said Burzichelli (D-Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem). "This small legislative action would allow New Jersey to support our Special Olympic 'Home Team's' achievements and their goal to compete in the National 2014 Special Olympics."

"The NJ Special Olympics Team is an exceptional group of athletes whose limitless pride and drive are an inspiration to us all," said Greenwald (D-Camden, Burlington). "Our 'Home Team" deserves our encouragement and donations to help ensure their success in 2014."

The bill (A-3491) would provide for voluntary contributions by taxpayers on gross income tax returns to support New Jersey athletes participating in the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. Under the bill, a special fund would be designated in the Department of Treasury.

The measure was released and now, heads to the Assembly Speaker for further consideration.

To read more, please visit the New Jersey General Assembly Democratic Office Web site.

On the Net:
The Assembly Democratic Office Web site
NJ Assembly Dems on YouTube
NJ Assembly Dems on Vimeo
NJ Assembly Dems on Facebook
NJ Assembly Dems on Twitter
NJ Assembly Dems e-mail alerts