Pregnancy Center Support Act of 2024
Should SB3610 be enacted, it would allow taxpayers to claim a tax credit worth 50% of their contributions to qualifying pregnancy centers, with limits set at $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for joint filers. This initiative aims to reduce the financial burden on individuals and businesses that contribute to organizations dedicated to supporting pregnant women and families, ultimately encouraging the growth and sustainability of these centers. Additionally, it underscores a legislative intent to bolster non-profit efforts that align with life-affirming values.
SB3610, known as the Pregnancy Center Support Act of 2024, focuses on amending the Internal Revenue Code to provide a tax credit for contributions made to qualifying pregnancy centers. The bill posits that pregnancy centers play a vital role in supporting women and families facing unplanned pregnancies by offering essential services such as counseling, material aid, and educational support. In 2022 alone, these centers reportedly provided over $358 million in goods and services, showcasing their significant impact on community health and welfare.
However, the bill has sparked debate due to its focus on pregnancy centers that do not perform or actively promote abortion services. Critics argue that it could divert funds away from essential reproductive health services and may reinforce a narrow approach to women's health care by promoting options that limit access to comprehensive reproductive choices. Advocates of the bill contend that it addresses an urgent need for community support for pregnant women, thus framing the discussion around the provision of care rather than restricting it.