Cliff Stearns: “I support the rule. This bipartisan legislation addresses the needs of this country's most vulnerable citizens, the…”

“I support the rule. This bipartisan legislation addresses the needs of this country's most vulnerable citizens, the children. Many families who would like to open their homes to children in need are prevented from doing so because of the $8,000 to $30,000 cost that is associated with this. The increase in the adoption tax credit to $10,000 for all adoptions would greatly facilitate the placement of children into permanent homes. In Congress, we are limited as to what we can do to promote healthy families. We cannot legislate kindness from parents towards their children nor can we legislate responsible parental behavior. Therefore, it is our duty to do what is in our power to encourage strong families. One such thing we can do is to enable these families who would like to open their households as permanent and loving homes for children in need. This legislation relieves the heavy financial burden placed on these families. Any family who wishes to care for these children in a permanent way should have the support of this body. I support the rule and urge passage of the bill.”