Us Congress Senate Bill SB74

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/25/23

Caption

Providing for Life Act of 2023 This bill revises various programs and supports for families and children related to taxes, health, and other benefits. First, the bill increases the child tax credit to a maximum of $3,500 per child ($4,500 per child under the age of six) and makes permanent the increased income threshold over which the credit phases out. The bill further eliminates the federal deduction for certain state and local taxes (SALT deduction) and makes the adoption tax credit refundable. The bill allows parents to use a portion of their Social Security benefits for up to three months of paid parental leave after the birth or adoption of a child. Additionally, the bill requires Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to cooperate with states in establishing child support orders. It also provides additional workforce training for noncustodial parents with child support obligations. States must establish requirements for the biological father of a child to pay, at the mother's request, at least 50% of reasonable out-of-pocket medical expenses associated with the mother's pregnancy and delivery. The bill requires institutions of higher education to provide students with certain information about the resources and services (excluding abortion services) available to pregnant students. Additionally, the bill provides grants for community-based maternal mentoring programs and for pregnancy resource centers that do not provide abortions; requires the Department of Health and Human Services to publish a website with specified pregnancy-related information; and extends from one to two years the postpartum benefit eligibility period under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

Impact

The bill also introduces several provisions targeting non-custodial parents by establishing requirements for financial contributions towards medical expenses associated with pregnancy and delivery. In addition, it defines expectations for states to ensure cooperation with child support agencies as a condition of receiving benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The legislation's objectives include enhancing financial stability for families and promoting responsible parenting behavior by enforcing child support obligations.

Summary

SB74, known as the 'Providing for Life Act of 2023', seeks to provide support to unborn children, pregnant women, parents, and families. The legislation proposes significant changes to existing tax credits, including an increase in the child tax credit up to $3,500 ($4,500 for children under six), permanently modifying the income threshold for phase-out. Moreover, it makes the adoption tax credit refundable, enabling more financial support for families adopting children.

Contention

Proponents argue SB74 will benefit needy families and promote the welfare of unborn children. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding the implications for personal choice and the accessibility of certain support services, particularly in educational institutions. Furthermore, discussions may arise about the appropriateness of mandating financial support from biological fathers, which could strain relationships and complicate personal dynamics. Overall, SB74 aims to shape the legal framework around family support and child welfare, reflecting contemporary discussions on social support and responsibility.