Some charitable organizations in Michigan are reporting a decline in donations following tax changes that eliminated state credits for financial gifts to food banks, homeless shelters and certain nonprofits.
The Detroit Free Press reports Tuesday that Michigan's updated tax laws have led to a drop in certain donations to nonprofits such as the Coalition on Temporary Shelter, the Detroit Rescue Mission, Gleaners Community Food Bank and Detroit Public Television, among others.
Donations to COTS were down 10 percent, or $45,000, between 2011 and 2012. In 2011, when Michigan had a 50 percent tax credit, COTS received 1,023 contributions between $200 and $400. Last year, when no credit was available, donors fell to 866.
Republican Gov. Rick Snyder and the Legislature made the changes to help balance the state's budget.