Committee releases bill allowing local governments to contribute to veterans and first-aid nonprofits

The Assembly State and Local Government Committee released A2993, a bill that would authorize counties and municipalities to annually provide up to $125,000 to first-aid organizations and up to $70,000 to nonprofit veterans organizations located within the county or municipality. The bill defines a nonprofit veterans organization as one that provides support services to those who have served in the U.S. armed forces and that qualifies under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(19).

The sponsor told the committee the legislation is intended to bolster support for veterans and emergency services, covering needs from housing and food security to mental-health supports and equipment purchases for local emergency response.

"This bill allows counties and municipalities to contribute up to a 125,000 annually to first aid organizations and up to 70,000 to nonprofit veterans organizations," the sponsor said during floor remarks to the panel, adding the bill includes audit requirements for contributions exceeding $70,000 and permits joint purchases of emergency equipment.

Support slips filed with the committee included the Veterans of Foreign Wars and other veterans organizations. No opposing testimony was recorded in the hearing. The committee voted to release the bill; members recorded in the transcript as saying "Yes" during the roll call included Assemblywoman Swift, Assemblyman Simonson, Assemblywoman McCoy, Assemblyman Schnell, Assemblywoman Swayne and Chairman Karabenchak.

The bill was released and will proceed to the next legislative stage.