Warner and Kaine introduce the ‘Virginia Beach Strong Act’

Virginia Democratic Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine introduced legislation that aims make donations to a fund for the families of victims of the May mass shooting in Virginia Beach tax deductible.

After the Virginia Beach mass shooting, the United Way of South Hampton Roads set up a fund for the victims and families affected by the tragedy. But donations made to that fund aren’t tax deductible, because the IRS claims taxes on donations made to specific people versus a cause.

Warner said he and Kaine introduced the bill “to make sure the $4.5 million from donors…receive the proper tax treatment.” He said he is hopeful that the bill will pass before the end of the year. 

The fund has raised over $4 million from donations from individuals and businesses and the United Way has undertaken the task of distributing the money. All of the victims’ funeral costs were covered, and $25,000 was paid to each family that contacted United Way. The remaining funds are set to be dispersed depending on each family’s needs.

Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Va.) introduced a version of the bill in the House in September.