Peace Garden News

U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Amy Klobuchar, along with colleagues from both parties, have introduced the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act to make the Adoption Tax Credit refundable. This move aims to support families opting for adoption by allowing them to receive the full tax credit as a refund, even if the credit surpasses their tax liability. Previously, the credit was refundable in 2010 and 2011.

The existing Adoption Tax Credit permits adoptive families to deduct up to $16,810 in qualified expenses, to mitigate the financial burden of adoption. "Adoption is a true joy for families, but it is not without significant financial cost," stated Senator Cramer, emphasizing the importance of making the credit refundable to benefit all adoptive families regardless of their tax burden.

Senator Klobuchar added, “Minnesotans have a long and proud tradition of adoption to welcome children into safe and loving homes,” highlighting the bipartisan effort to ensure smooth transitions for adopting families. Co-sponsors of the bill include Senators Tim Scott, Mark Warner, James Lankford, Elizabeth Warren, among others, representing a diverse political spectrum.

The legislation also garnered support in the U.S. House of Representatives by advocates such as Danny K. Davis, Blake Moore, and Gwen Moore, reflecting broad bipartisan backing for making adoption financially accessible. It has been endorsed by the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group Executive Committee and numerous national, state, and local organizations.

“Families should not face steep financial costs for opening their arms and offering a permanent home to adoptive children," said Senator Marsha Blackburn. This sentiment was echoed by Senator Ben Ray Luján, emphasizing the importance of reducing financial barriers to adoption.

The Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act seeks to ease the financial strain of adoption, thus enabling more children to find stable family homes.