Charitable Deductions and Health-Care Reform

Your story on President Obama's proposal to pay for universal health care in part by capping some charitable tax deductions ["Obama Defends Push to Cut Tax Deductions for Charitable Gifts," news story, March 26] provided an incomplete and misleading version of my comments.

There are two important aspects to Mr. Obama's plan. This story accurately reported our belief that this plan will affect giving, but I also pointed out that possible declines in contributions would be concentrated in those organizations whose donors earn more than $250,000 annually. I emphasized that it is particularly painful for such organizations to contemplate future reductions in donations at a time when needs are so great.

But the story neglected the second half of the president's proposal, which I also mentioned: the urgency of health-care reform. As service providers, charitable groups see every day what happens to Americans who cannot afford quality care. As employers of more than 12 million people, our sector faces rising insurance premiums that increasingly force choices between cutting benefits and cutting programs. Significant reform, including cost control, would free funds for much-needed services.

We believe the country can find ways to encourage our tradition of charitable giving and create a less expensive but more inclusive health-care system.

DIANA AVIV

President and Chief Executive

Independent Sector

Washington