A new state Senate bill would add the Fostering Futures Scholarship fund to Michigan’s voluntary contribution schedule.
The state-funded program helps foster youth in Michigan pay for tuition and other costs associated with college.
Under SB 543, taxpayers would be able to donate a portion of their return to the fund via a check-off a box on their tax form.
Sen. Peter MacGregor, R-Rockford, introduced the bill this week.
"We have 13,000 kids every year in the foster care system. When they turn 18, it's 'see ya, goodbye,’” MacGregor said. “This [fund] gives them a chance to be a productive citizen."
To be considered for the voluntary contributions schedule, an organization must serve multiple regions within the state and be able to raise at least $50,000 each year.
The Fostering Futures Scholarship fund would join nine other charities already on the schedule, including the United Way fund and Special Olympics Michigan.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee.
