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HD 2153

An Act providing for a donation check-off box on state tax returns for the Massachusetts Youth & Government program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bruce Ayers and 5 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill allows taxpayers to voluntarily donate to Youth & Government program via state tax return check-box, providing alternative funding stream without state budget impact.

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Bill Summary · HD 2153

Legislative bill overview

HD 2153 would add a voluntary donation check-off box on Massachusetts state tax return forms, allowing taxpayers to contribute directly to the Massachusetts Youth & Government program. The bill creates a simple mechanism for state residents to support youth civic engagement initiatives through their existing tax filing process.

Why is this important

Youth & Government programs provide educational experiences in civics and democratic participation for high school students. The check-off mechanism offers a low-friction fundraising method that could generate program revenue without requiring new taxes or state appropriations, though the actual funding impact depends on taxpayer participation rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Effectiveness of check-off fundraising: Research shows check-off boxes on tax returns typically generate modest revenue (often less than 1% of filers participate), raising questions about whether this justifies administrative costs
  • Program selection precedent: Adding this check-off could open requests from other nonprofit programs or causes seeking similar tax return placement, potentially cluttering forms and creating difficult choices about which programs qualify
  • State resources for administration: The bill requires Department of Revenue resources to manage the program, handle donations, and provide accounting—costs that may offset revenue generated

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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