I’ve heard from many constituents regarding legislation affecting tax-exempt “purely public charities.” Below, I outline a measure I’m introducing to make sure this issue is fully vetted before any changes are implemented. We’ve also included my recent discussion on property tax reform with area legislators, and more. If you find this e-newsletter useful, I invite you to visit my website www.MarioScavello.com for more information about your state government. If you do not wish to receive these e-newsletters, please click the "unsubscribe" button at the bottom of the page. Sincerely, Mario In this Issue:
Scavello Introduces Bill to Establish a Special Committee on “Purely Public Charities”This week I introduced Senate Bill 446, a proposal that establishes a special legislative committee to study and make recommendations regarding the definition of “purely public charities.” The state Supreme Court in Mesivtah Eitz Chaim of Bobov, Inc. v. Pike County Board of Assessment (2012) dismantled Act 55 and reinstated the “HUP test” established by the courts as the means to determine the definition of a charity. The decision has created uncertainty and the potential for increased litigation. The court further held that the legislature was prohibited by the Constitution of Pennsylvania from enacting changes to the law. A constitutional amendment, Senate Bill 4, was introduced to allow the General Assembly to develop a statute that addresses this issue. I have been contacted by many constituents who are concerned that this issue has not been vetted enough, and Senate Bill 446 will ensure that the legislature will take a careful, deliberative approach to considering all sides of this issue. Click here for more information on SB 446. February “Legislative Report with Senator Scavello”I recently sat down and spoke with Monroe County Rep. Rosemary Brown, Rep. David Parker and Rep. Jack Rader about property tax reform. We also have highlights from the 99th Annual Pennsylvania Farm Show. Doctoral Students Discuss Issues Related to Education and State Budget
Links of InterestThe PA Higher Education Assistance Agency offers video tutorials on the student aid process at its YouTube channel. Learn about different types of aid, how to apply, how to avoid scholarship scams and how to maximize college affordability and free gift aid while minimizing reliance of expensive student loans. Hunters can now obtain a license plate for their vehicles honoring Pennsylvania's hunting heritage. You can buy Hunting Heritage patches, too. PennDOT will process applications for the Hunting Heritage plate, and the application is available at the Game Commission website. The Pennsylvania trout stocking schedule is available online at my website www.marioscavello.com. Follow Me on Facebook and Twitter!To stay up-to-date on state issues and events affecting Monroe and Northampton counties, I invite you to follow me on my new Facebook and Twitter pages. |
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