ABC27 WHTM State representatives write bill to encourage corporate charity

State representatives write bill to encourage corporate charity

Two state representatives are introducing legislation that they hope will simplify and encourage corporate charity donations.

Gordon Denlinger (R-Lancaster), and Eugene DePasquale (D-York) want to create a new class of corporations in Pennsylvania that would make it easier for them to donate. Called class Benefit Corporation (B-Corp), the category would allow managers to take non-profit assets into account when making decisions for their business.

Under the existing classes,  managers can only consider benefits that are profit-driven and that maximize shareholder payoff,  according to Denlinger.

Denlinger believes the new system would please consumers along with charity missions. "In turn, consumers are able to support businesses that align with their values," he said.

Maryland, Vermont, and New Jersey, are states that currently allow businesses to be classified this way.