Senator Kemp Hannon announced that a new federal law that will allow taxpayers to deduct any donations to tsunami relief efforts in Southeast Asia through Jan. 31 on their 2004 federal tax returns will also apply to residents filing 2004 New York State tax returns.

"The devastation and human loss brought on by the tsunami in Southeast Asia have deeply touched all of our lives," said Hannon. "Significant humanitarian relief efforts are already under way, and we sincerely believe that this legislation will further encourage New Yorkers to open their hearts and donate any amount that they can to assist the people who have been affected by this terrible tragedy."

The new law will enable New Yorkers who make cash donations through

Jan. 31 to claim the deductions on their 2004 New York State tax returns, in addition to their 2004 federal tax returns. In order to be able to deduct the charitable contributions, taxpayers will have to itemize on their tax returns.

"After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, New Yorkers showed their compassion and spirit of giving by coming together to support their fellow Americans when they needed it most," Hannon said. "This law will hopefully inspire even more New Yorkers to get involved with the relief efforts in Southeast Asia by providing much needed cash donations that can be used immediately in the affected areas."

Chaired by Senator Kemp Hannon, the New York State Health Committee, in conjunction with the Senate Insurance Committee, recently conducted a public hearing to solicit testimony regarding issues and recommendations for the pending Health Care Reform Act (HCRA) reauthorization in 2005. The goal is to ensure that both current practice and expected trends in health care delivery are reflected in the legislative direction of HCRA. Pictured are Senator Mary Lou Rath, Senator Hannon and Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno.