KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- One program that serves many Missourians is still alive thanks to a vote during the special legislative session.

R.A.I.L or Rural Advocates for Independent Living in Kirksville is a big supporter of a tax credit call “Circuit Breaker” that is beneficial to low income elderly, the disabled, and veterans who are homeowners or renters.

Each person on average receives back in tax refunds about $400-$500 dollars to help pay for things like home repairs that they had done, and in return helps the local economy.

Last week the Missouri Senate narrowly passed the bill with a 17-16 vote.

 “We just want our legislation to support this.”  Said Carolyn Chambers of R.A.I.L. “It does help people with disabilities, seniors, and veterans which I think is a group of people we all need to support.”

Chambers said as well that R.A.I.L. was very happy with the news.

“It was a hard battle that was fought. We're glad to see it was taken off the table because there are other ways to accomplish some of the economics of the state at The Capitol without hurting people with disabilities, seniors, or veterans.”

   
Chambers also added this couldn’t be possible without the continued support of the public, legislators, and groups who support the bill.

“R.A.I.L. is part of an organization called Missouri Centers for Independent Living. There are 22 centers in the state and 19 members are in it. They are part of a legislative committee so we have people go down to Jefferson City on a regular basis.”

Now, it’s up to the Missouri House to pass it as the special session is likely to continue into next week and R.A.I.L. is hoping it gets passed there as well. Both chambers must agree on the same version to send it to Missouri Governor Jay Nixon.

The tax credit didn’t receive much support from three Missouri State Senators as Brian Munslinger of Williamstown, Bill Stouffer of Napton and Brad Lager of Savannah all voted to discontinue the tax credit.

Last year, 1,500 people in R.A.I.L.’s 11 county service area filed for the tax credit and as a result, they got about $20,000 in refunds that came into the community.

If you want to know it you’re eligible for the credit, check here: http://dor.mo.gov/pdf/proptax.pdf