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Bill

H 847

An act relating to a tax return checkoff box for Hunger Free Vermont

2025-2026 Regular Session

Vermont tax return checkoff box directs voluntary taxpayer contributions to Hunger Free Vermont for food insecurity programs.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 847

Legislative bill overview

H 847 creates an optional checkoff box on Vermont state income tax returns that allows taxpayers to voluntarily contribute funds to support Hunger Free Vermont, an organization addressing food insecurity. The bill enables direct funding for anti-hunger initiatives through the tax filing process without requiring taxpayers to make separate donations.

Why is this important

Food insecurity affects thousands of Vermont residents, and this mechanism provides an additional revenue stream for hunger relief programs while giving citizens a simple way to support the cause. Tax return checkoffs have proven effective in other states for funding charitable causes, potentially generating meaningful resources without requiring new government appropriations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost-benefit of administration: The state incurs expenses to administer the checkoff program (printing, processing, accounting) that reduce the net funds reaching Hunger Free Vermont
  • Public funding questions: Whether anti-hunger work should be funded through general taxation or voluntary donations, and whether this approach represents appropriate government prioritization
  • Organizational specificity: Some may argue state tax forms shouldn't promote specific organizations, raising questions about fairness to other food security nonprofits or charitable causes

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

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