Marcellino Provides Tax Relief For Home Heating

The New York State Senate today passed the "Home Heating Relief Act," sponsored by Senator Carl Marcellino, Chairman of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, to provide a one thousand dollar tax deduction to homeowners who purchase heating oil, natural gas and propane during the winter heating season.

"As gas prices continue to climb, it’s important to look ahead to the winter heating season and provide financial relief for our already overburdened taxpayers," Senator Marcellino said. "Consumers need a break from skyrocketing heating expenses. No one should have to choose between paying their utility bill, filing a prescription or buying food."

"Despite the hot weather outside, the home heating season will be upon us before we know it," said Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno. "Each year, it costs more and more for taxpayers to heat their homes. At a time where New Yorkers are dealing with rising gas prices, and some of the highest property taxes in the nation, we must be proactive in providing this relief."

The bill (S.8173-A) provides a tax deduction of one thousand dollars for heating oil, natural gas, and propane. Any taxpayer filing as an individual earning $75,000 or less or any taxpayers filing a joint returning earning $150,000 or less would be eligible for this tax deduction.

"It may be hot now, but the cold days are just around the corner, and taxpayers will be faced with once again paying absurd costs just to heat their homes. Families are struggling just making ends meet. With the possibility of $5 gas at the pump and rising food costs, the heating bill is going to push many people over the edge. We need to provide some sort of relief. This is a good start," Senator Marcellino said.

The bill was sent to the Assembly.