Mike Barrett bill would let Massachusetts taxpayers aid countries hit by climate change

BOSTON — A state lawmaker wants to let Massachusetts residents donate to poorer countries hit hardest by climate change when they fill out their tax returns.

Sen. Mike Barrett said his bill is in part a reaction to President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the 2015 Paris accord meant to address climate change.

The bill would add a line to state tax forms to let taxpayers make a donation over and above their regular payment.

The Lexington Democrat said any money raised would go to 48 of the poorest countries in the world.

Barrett said state taxpayers already contribute over $1 million annually by “checking off” any of six boxes printed on their state income tax forms including the Endangered Species Fund and Massachusetts AIDS Fund.