House (H.R. 641) and Senate (S.330) amend the IRS code to:
> make the tax deduction for charitable contributions by individuals and corporations of real property interests for conservation purposes permanent; and
> allow Native Corporations an increased tax deduction for donations of conservation easements related to lands conveyed under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
Why is this issue important to golf course owners and operators?
Under these laws, the IRS can deny golf courses the tax benefits from having an approved Conservation Easement agreement.
What is the NGCOA doing about this issue?
Forbes-Tate, WE ARE GOLF’s Washington, D.C.-based advocacy firm, led an effort supported by several WAG member organizations—including the NGCOA—to convince key members of the Senate Finance Committee to include golf courses among land uses eligible for conservation easement tax incentives. WAG continues to remain vigilant with both the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee to ensure that golf courses remain eligible for conservation easement tax incentives.
During a recent Senate hearing on the Flint Michigan water crisis, Michigan Senator Gary Peters presented to members a proposal to rescind the tax incentives golf courses receive from the conservation easement tax incentive, as a means to provide the emergency funds sought by the state. Fortunately this recommendation did not receive support from the full Senate, but it is shows the vulnerability we face if congress fails to make this tax permanent.
How you can get involved
Passage of this bill is critical to ensuring golf courses are treated equally with all other businesses and corporations. Contact your local representative and encourage their support for passage of this legislation. Learn more about this issue and discuss it with your peers.