Bill > HB1376

This bill establishes the "Zero-Cost Adoption Fund Act" to support adoption in Missouri by creating a dedicated fund and providing tax incentives for contributions. The bill creates a new fund in the state treasury that will receive donations and be administered by the Department of Social Services, with priority uses including helping residents pay for adoption expenses, providing post-adoption assistance, promoting adoption, and supporting community interventions to prevent children from entering foster care. Qualified taxpayers who make donations to the fund can receive a tax credit equal to 100% of their contribution, up to 50% of their state tax liability, with the total annual tax credits limited to $25 million initially and potentially increasing to $75 million. The tax credits can be carried forward for up to four subsequent tax years but cannot be transferred or refunded. The program is set to automatically sunset after six years unless reauthorized by the state legislature, ensuring periodic review of its effectiveness. The bill aims to reduce financial barriers to adoption and provide support for adoptive families, with a particular focus on children in the foster care system.

Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1376&year=2025&code=R