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Latest Budget Fix Idea: Taxpayers Donate Funds To Calif. Treasury

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — A state lawmaker says he's got a new solution for plugging California's remaining $15.4 billion budget deficit: taxpayers should send in their extra funds.

State Senator Doug LaMalfa has introduced a bill to add a line to California's tax forms that would allow people choose to pay more than they actually owe.

While it's too late to make the change for the current tax season, LaMalfa tells KNX 1070 plans are already in place for next year's returns.

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"I'm taking this as a serious part of a budget solution, no matter how big or small it is," said LaMalfa.

LaMalfa says any extra amount given would be deductible from federal taxable income just like any other contribution to charity.

One potential group who may feel compelled to give: those Californians who support raising taxes.

According to LaMalfa, the move gives people who want higher taxes an opportunity to "put their money where their mouth is".


(©2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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