The House Tax Policy Committee this morning approved legislation to allow taxpayers to easily donate money to help fund Michigan chapters of the American Red Cross.

House Bill 4497, introduced by state Rep. Mark Ouimet, R-Scio Township, creates a fund to allow for a new American Red Cross voluntary check-off box on state income tax returns.

Mark Ouimet

The Red Cross provides relief to disaster victims and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

"An income tax check-off is an effective way to generate hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for this worthy organization," Ouimet, former chairman of the Washtenaw County Chapter of the American Red Cross, said in a statement. "The check-off is completely optional, and gives taxpayers a convenient way to donate if they so choose."

Revenue generated from the check-off would be distributed to Red Cross chapters throughout the state. Michigan currently has 10 voluntary check-offs for various nonprofit groups and issues, including the Children's Hospital of Michigan Fund, Michigan Council for the Arts Fund, and Animal Welfare Fund.

The legislation now goes to the full House for consideration.

Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's e-mail newsletters.