My first two weeks here at the Capitol have gone by quickly. Last week I was sworn into office, and this week was the Governor’s inauguration. It was good to have family and friends here with me for these two events. And, I extend the invitation to everyone to come visit the Capitol.
I also had the privilege to set in on the Senate Confirmation hearing for Steve Bubanovich, of Van Buren. Steve has been appointed by the governor to the Missouri Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, and Professional Landscape Architects.
The House Committee on Children and Families met Tuesday afternoon to discuss and approve two pieces of legislation that would reduce the financial burden for foster parents and families interested in adopting. The two bills are priorities for House Speaker Rob Vescovo, who called for the policy changes in his opening day address.
HB 429 would authorize an income tax deduction for the expenses related to providing care as a foster parent. The bill would authorize a deduction of $2,500 for an individual and $5,000 for a married couple if foster care is provided for at least six months. HB 430 would expand the state’s existing $10,000 tax credit to any adoption. Currently the credit applies only to those who adopt special needs children. The bills would continue to give priority to special needs adoptions.
The sponsor of the bill, who has been a foster parent and who adopted one of the children she fostered, said the state can make a wise investment in young people with the tax breaks for families.
Vescovo has said the two bills will be the first out of the house this session as he hopes to put them on the fast track to legislative passage. They are scheduled to be debated and approved on the floor next week.
If you have any questions regarding any state matters or legislation, please don’t hesitate to contact email me at Darrell.Atchison@house.mo.gov or call 573-751-1066.
It is an honor to serve as your State Representative.
Darrell Atchison represents District 153, which includes Carter and Ripley counties and parts of Wayne and Butler counties.