July 12th, 2004

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today signed legislation that will provide automatic income tax filing extensions, and exemptions from penalties and interest, to those active duty military personnel serving in combat zones. 
“This legislation is a small offering that we can extend to individuals who put themselves in harms way to protect our state and our nation,” said Granholm. “We are proud of all of the enlisted men and women of Michigan and grateful for their service.” 

Public Act 199 of 2004 (HB 4710) amends the Income Tax Act of 1967 to allow an extension period consistent with that afforded by the Internal Revenue Service. To qualify, service men and women serving in combat zones will not need to file copies of federal extensions. Instead, they will simply need to print “combat zone” in red ink at the top of their returns. 

This new law formalizes a policy that has been practiced by the Michigan Department of Treasury.