Mississippi House Bill HB262

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/23
• Refer: 1/5/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Income tax; extend reverter on credit allowed for child adoption expenses.

Impact

If enacted, HB262 would significantly impact Mississippi state tax laws relating to adoption. By increasing the maximum refundable credit available for adoption expenses, the bill aims to encourage adoption by alleviating some financial burdens that families may experience during the process. The enhanced tax credit is especially beneficial for families adopting through state services, ultimately supporting the state's child welfare policies and promoting stability in the family unit through adoption.

Summary

House Bill 262 aims to amend the existing provisions under Section 27-7-22.32 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, which governs the tax credit for qualified expenses incurred during the adoption of a child. The primary change proposed by this bill is the extension of the reverter date on a provision that increases the allowable tax credit amount from $2,500 to $5,000 per child adopted. This raises the maximum credit for adoptions facilitated by the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services to a permanent $5,000, thus providing enhanced financial support to adoptive families in the state.

Contention

While supporters of HB262 argue that enhancing the tax credit will encourage more families to adopt children and foster a culture of support for children in care, there might be concerns about the financial implications this extension entails for state revenue. Opponents may question the sustainability of such tax benefits amidst other pressing state budgetary needs, raising concerns about potential funding deficits for essential services if the tax credits are widely utilized.