Allows New Jerseyans to Donate to NJ SHARES Through Tax Returns

Senator Anthony Bucco’s (R-Morris and Somerset) legislation to help those who have fallen on hard times to pay their energy bills has passed unanimously by the New Jersey Senate. The measure lets New Jersey taxpayers make donations to families and individuals encountering economic difficulty, assisting them in affording their gas and/or electric bills.

“I am pleased this crucial legislation helping New Jerseyans who have hit an unexpected financial rough patch [unanimously] passed the Senate,” said Bucco. “It’s our moral obligation to make sure families can keep their heat on, especially during this brutal winter. My legislation gives New Jerseyans the opportunity to donate to such households in need. Let’s help families stay warm and safe in their homes this season.”

Bucco’s legislation, S-77, establishes the NJ SHARES Fund. NJ SHARES is a 501(c)3 non-profit providing assistance to individuals and families living in New Jersey who are in need of temporary help paying their energy bills.

To qualify for assistance from NJ SHARES, an individual or family must be facing a financial crisis and not be eligible for welfare or other income-based energy assistance programs. Recipients must also have a history of good-faith payments of their utility bills.

New Jersey taxpayers will have the option to indicate on their state gross income tax return that a portion of their tax refund or an enclosed contribution will be deposited in the NJ SHARES Fund.

“A basic necessity is being able to keep warm on frigid nights, especially for children and seniors who are most vulnerable,” added Bucco. “NJ SHARES has been a safety net for families weathering such unexpected economic storms for over 20 years. Given the cold spell our state has faced this winter, let’s make sure New Jersey families have a warm place to call home.”