Maintain tax credit for adoptions

On Nov. 2, House Republicans unveiled their long-awaited tax proposal. One important, but littleknown, provision that had been eliminated as part of the proposed overhaul was the adoption tax credit.

The House Ways and Means Committee then reversed its proposed elimination of the adoption tax credit and has taken a step to support American families by retaining the adoption tax credit as part of House Resolution 1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Additionally, the Senate Republicans’ proposal also has retained this important tax credit. As an adoption attorney in Ohio, I feel that this reversal was very wise.

As the legislative process for tax reform moves forward, Congress should ensure that any final bill maintains the current availability and amount of the adoption tax credit for all Americans who currently qualify. Beyond retaining the current credit, improvements should include reinstating refundability of this credit so more middleand lower-income families can benefit as they welcome a child into their home.

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group, a coalition of more than 150 adoption and family building advocates, nonprofits, attorneys and religious organizations across the United States, has expressed its appreciation for the work that Congress did to reinstate the adoption tax credit in the House bill. We look forward to working with all members of Congress to preserve and enhance the credit. All children deserve a forever family. Columbus