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VFW tax exemption moves forward

Published (2/4/2011)
By Sue Hegarty
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In many rural communities a VFW or American Legion post serves more than area veterans. Part of a community’s social fabric, its building offers a place for wedding receptions, birthday parties and lawful gambling for local charities, according to Rep. Tom Anzelc (DFL-Balsam Township).

“I am really concerned about losing these facilities,” said Anzelc, who sponsors HF99 that would exempt qualifying veterans’ organizations from paying property taxes.

The House Veterans Services Division approved the bill Jan. 31 and referred it to the House State Government Finance Committee with a recommended referral to the House Taxes Committee. There is no Senate companion.

The economic downturn and the organizations’ dwindling memberships contribute to declining receipts, and that leaves fewer charitable dollars for the community as well, Anzelc said.

Current law allows service organizations to take property tax deductions if their charitable donations are equal to their property taxes. If adopted, HF99 would supersede current law.

Rep. Tim O'Driscoll (R-Sartell) was reluctant to absolve the organizations of property taxes on larger tracts of unused land.

“I’m most concerned about the building, the post which includes the social portion of the veterans’ organization. Excess property would definitely have to be addressed,” Anzelc said.

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