Pence wants tax credit for adoptive parents

Gov. Mike Pence wants Indiana lawmakers to create a state tax credit that would help parents offset adoption expenses.

The Evansville Courier & Press reports Pence's proposal calls for taxpayers benefiting from the federal adoption credit would be able to claim an additional credit on their state tax return.

Pence also wants an interim study committee to explore faith-based and community adoption programs and how to better connect the state's adoption services. Pence has said he wants Indiana to become nation's "most pro-adoption state."

Sharon Pierce, president and CEO of The Villages, the state's largest not-for-profit child and family services agency, says she is supportive of Pence's plan. Pierce says the organization also would like to see lawmakers bring back a state adoption subsidy.