ALS News Today: Californians can help fund ALS research through tax contributions 

People living in California can help fund amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) research when filing their state taxes.

The California ALS Research Network Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund allows Californians to contribute to research projects selected by the ALS Network’s scientific advisory committee. At least $250,000 must be raised annually for the program to remain on the California income tax return form, according to the law signed in 2023 by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

“ALS and related neurodegenerative diseases can impact anyone, so it’s on all of us to be a part of the solution,” Sheri Strahl, president and CEO of the ALS Network, said in a network press release. “The tax donation program enables a funding source to support some of the brightest minds in disease research, bridging the gap between the researcher’s bench and the patient’s bedside.”

To donate, a taxpayer should select code 447 on their California income tax return — 540 2EZ, 540, 540NR long or short form, and 541, Schedule C — in the contributions section, write the amount they wish to donate, and submit the form, the ALS Network said. The donation will be added to the taxpayer’s tax liability or deducted from any refund.