Clinton Backs Tax Credit For Adoptions

Endorsing an element of the Republican “Contract with America,” President Clinton on Monday threw his support behind legislation that would provide a sizable tax credit for all but the wealthiest families who adopt children.

Clinton’s announcement was the second in three days in which he moved to outflank the Republicans on social issues. On Saturday, he announced that his administration would require states to devise plans to keep teenage welfare mothers in school.

Clinton sent a letter to House Speaker Newt Gingrich Monday expressing his “strong support” for a GOP bill that would give a $5,000 tax credit for many adoptive families. The measure is due for a House vote later this week.

The measure would also fine states if they delayed interracial adoptions so as to await the possibility of a same-race placement, although it would allow race to be considered if two qualified families seek a child.