PROVIDENCE Legislation to encourage part-time Rhode Island residents to give to Rhode Island charities was signed into law March 28 by Gov. Don Carcieri in ceremonies in the State Room at the State House. The legislation was sponsored by House Majority Leader Gordon D. Fox (D-Dist. 4) of Providence and Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Paiva-Weed (D-Dist. 13, Newport, Jamestown).
The legislation (2007-H 5114 and 2007-S 0009) will prevent the state from considering a person's charitable donations as evidence when determining for tax purposes whether that person's primary residence is in Rhode Island. Many accountants and tax advisors have discouraged part-time Rhode Island residents from giving to charities out of fear that the donation could be used as evidence against them if the state ever challenges their residency.
The bills were passed overwhelmingly by the General Assembly.
(This article originally appeared in The Providence Visitor)
