Chris Van Hollen: “As an original cosponsor of H.R. 4783, I rise in support of this bipartisan legislation and urge its immediate enactment…”

“As an original cosponsor of H.R. 4783, I rise in support of this bipartisan legislation and urge its immediate enactment to support the ongoing recovery efforts in Chile and Haiti. This bill does two simple things. First, it allows anybody making a cash contribution for earthquake relief in Chile before April 15, 2010, to receive a charitable deduction for the qualifying contribution on their 2009 tax return. And second, it provides the same tax benefit to those wishing to support relief efforts in Haiti, by extending the original March 1, 2010, deadline for Haiti contributions to April 15, 2010, as well. These simple steps are consistent with our nation's tradition of responding to those in need and will provide an extra incentive for generous Americans to make timely contributions to these crises when the assistance is needed most.”