New Jersey bill would let taxpayers give part of their refund to fund humanities programs

A taxpayer could mark on their New Jersey gross income tax return that part of their refund, or an enclosed contribution, goes to a new New Jersey Council for the Humanities Fund. It covers New Jersey gross income tax filers, and giving would be voluntary. The Division of Taxation's collection and administration costs may be taken out of the contributions. It would take effect immediately and apply to tax years starting on or after January 1 following enactment.

The State Treasurer would deposit net contributions into the fund, and the Legislature would each year appropriate that money to the New Jersey Council for the Humanities. The Council would use the money for grants to people and groups that support public humanities programming in the state. The Legislature must appropriate the money each year before it can be spent.