The Bill That Would Make Permanent a $10,000 Tax Credit for Adoption has Gained Over 110 Co-Sponsors in the House of Representatives

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Pennsylvania Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-8th district) is proud to announce that the Adoption Tax Relief Guarantee Act has gained immense bipartisan support. As of this week, the bill has 115 co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle. This bill makes permanent the $10,000 child adoption tax credit which is currently set to expire in 2010. Representative Murphy is a member of the Bipartisan Congressional Coalition on Adoption. The lead sponsor of this bill is Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) and the companion legislation will be introduced in the Senate by Senators Jim Bunning (R-KY) and Ben Nelson (D-NE).

“We need to act with a sense of urgency to make sure that all children grow up in loving homes and I am glad that so many of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle have joined me in this effort,” said Congressman Patrick Murphy. “Without regard for politics, this bill makes it easier for parents to adopt children and ensure they grow up in good homes. The large number of supporters of this bill shows that when by working together, we can do some good for children and families faced with tough life choices.”

The legislation introduced by Congressman Murphy and Congressman Wilson is called the “Adoption Tax Relief Guarantee Act of 2007.” It makes permanent the $10,000 child adoption tax credit, which is set to expire in 2010. Senators Jim Bunning and Ben Nelson will introduce a companion bill in the Senate. According to a 2005 adoption cost survey by Adoptive Families, the average cost of adoption was between $20,000 and $25,000. Providing relief to middle-income families will make it easier for them to adopt. If enacted, this legislation would provide a tax credit up to $10,000 for qualified expenses relating to domestic and international adoptions. In addition, an employer may offer up to $10,000 in qualified adoption expenses that will be excluded from income.

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For Immediate Release, April 17, 2007

Contact: Adam Abrams, (202) 225-4276