By Bob Katzen

The House has given initial approval to a bill that would require that any group or individual soliciting contributions for a charitable organization by mail or telephone, to inform potential donors what percentage of contributions go directly to the charity.

Supporters said that oftentimes people who make donations assume that 100 percent of their donation goes directly to the charity when in fact a private fundraising company is getting a percentage of the money raised.

“People should feel secure that their charitable donations are being used in an appropriate manner and going to the organization they chose to support” said sponsor Rep. Paul McMurtry (D-Dedham). “This added disclosure by solicitors protects both the commonwealth’s donors and charitable organizations.”