The New York State Senate today passed legislation, sponsored by Senator Andrew Lanza (R-I, Staten Island) to provide a personal income tax deduction to school teachers who pay for school supplies out of their own pockets.

The bill (S.6792-A) provides a personal income tax deduction, up to $450, for K-12 teachers, instructors, counselors, principals, or aides in public and nonpublic schools for supplies paid for out-of-pocket.

“Every year, teachers across New York dip into their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies they believe will benefit their students and create a better learning environment,” said Senator Lanza. “This legislation will help offset the costs that these incredible teachers incur to go the extra mile for their students.”

Our teachers often spend their own hard-earned money to make sure our school children have the best possible learning experience in the classroom,” said Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno. “The current federal tax deduction is simply not enough — teachers spends hundreds of dollars of their own money each year on supplies to ensure their students have the supplies they need. This legislation will provide additional relief to teachers and ensure our students continue to have the best learning environment.”

Currently, a federal tax deduction exists for teachers’ out-of-pocket expenses, up to $250. According to a 2001 survey by the National School Supply and Equipment Association, teachers pay an average of $589 a year on school supplies. This legislation will provide teachers much needed relief from these out-of-pocket costs.

The bill was sent to the Assembly.

(YWN Desk)