North Dakota House Bill HB1176

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/16/23
• Engrossed: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Report Pass: 3/9/23
• Enrolled: 4/19/23
• Passed: 4/25/23

Caption

An adoption tax credit and a tax credit for contributions to a maternity home, child-placing agency, or pregnancy help center; and to provide an effective date.

Impact

In addition to supporting adoption, the bill offers a tax credit for contributions made to maternity homes, child placing agencies, or pregnancy help centers. This provision encourages financial donations to support organizations focused on aiding pregnant women and families. The constraints on the credit, stating it cannot exceed 50% of the taxpayer's liability or a fixed dollar amount, aim to limit the financial impact on state revenue while promoting essential social services. This dual-purpose approach could influence state laws related to tax incentives and family assistance programs, potentially leading to increased financial support for birth-related services.

Summary

House Bill 1176 introduces two new tax credits aimed at encouraging adoption and supporting maternity resources in North Dakota. The first section establishes an adoption tax credit, allowing taxpayers to receive a credit equal to 10% of the federal adoption credit. This credit can facilitate family planning and support those who adopt by lessening the financial burden associated with adoption expenses. The advantageous aspect of this measure is that taxpayers can carry forward any unused credit to the next three taxable years, potentially benefiting more individuals over time.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around HB1176 appears positive, as it aligns with broader social goals of supporting families and adoption. Lawmakers may see it as a proactive step towards addressing child welfare and maternal health issues. The overwhelming support in the initial voting stages—including 88 approving votes in the House—indicates bipartisan backing, suggesting a shared recognition of the importance of assisting families and children in North Dakota.

Contention

While there may not be significant opposition recorded so far on HB1176, potential points of contention could revolve around the sustainability of tax credits and their implications for state funding. Critics might argue that these financial incentives could lead to decreased revenue for the state, affecting funding for other critical programs. The effectiveness of such tax credits in increasing adoptions or enhancing support services could also be debated, raising questions about accountability and outcomes related to state spending on these initiatives.