January 24, 2023
To: Montana House Taxation Committee
From: Matthew Brower, Executive Director of the Montana Catholic Conference Re: Testimony in support of HB 225
Mr. Chairman and members of the committee, my name is Matt Brower (B-R-O-W-E-R) and I currently serve as the Executive Director of the Montana Catholic Conference. I speak on behalf of the Roman Catholic bishops of Montana.
I am here today to voice our support for House Bill 225.
St. John Paul II said, “To adopt a child is a great work of love. When it is done, much is given, but much also is received. It is a true exchange of gifts.” Indeed, through adoption, countless children have been afforded the precious gift of a loving family and a chance to grow and reach their full potential within a nurturing home environment.
One does not have to be financially well-off to in order to be a good parent. But, unfortunately, adoption comes with attendant costs that can make pursuing adoption difficult for those who would otherwise treasure the opportunity to welcome a new child into their family.
This credit is specifically designed to help those who choose to adopt a child offset a portion of the costs involved in adoption. As such, this bill incentivizes and supports the kind of life- affirming choices that the conference strongly supports.
Mr. Chairman and members of the committee, on behalf of the Montana Catholic Conference, I urge a “do pass” and thank you for your time.