Tax Break for Tsunami Donations

RALEIGH - Last week Congress passed new legislation that enables Americans to deduct donations made to tsunami relief efforts through January 31 on their 2004 tax returns. The President has signed the new bill into law. Without the new law, those who donated after December 31 would have had to wait for the tax break until they filed their 2005 returns. Today, U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) reminded North Carolinians about the new law and urged his constituents to give as they can.

"The outpouring of generosity from North Carolinians and all Americans has been outstanding, and I am pleased that this new law provides additional tools to help with the recovery and rebuilding efforts," Etheridge said. "There is a long and difficult road ahead for those countries impacted, and I encourage all North Carolinians to give as they can. We are already seeing the heartwarming pictures of the impact of aid in the region. Today we are especially grateful for our American military men and women who are making the relief efforts possible."

For more information on the tsunami disaster in South and Southeast Asia and what you can do to help, please visit Etheridge's website at www.house.gov/etheridge/Tsunami2.htm.