Senate Committee Hears Benevolent Tax Credit Bill

On Tuesday, the Senate Economic Development Committee considered SB 155, sponsored by Sen. Andrew Koenig (R-Manchester). SB 155 would expand the tax credits for donations to domestic violence shelters and maternity homes. Current law authorizes a tax credit for contributions to domestic violence shelters equal to 50% of the contribution, with a maximum annual amount of $2 million. SB 155 would increase the tax credit to 70% and remove the annual cumulative limit. The bill would also add rape crisis centers to the facilities eligible for the tax credit. 

SB 155 also raises the tax credit for contributions to maternity homes from 50 percent to 70 percent and removes the annual cumulative limit (current set at $3.5 million). Senator Koenig hopes that these changes will allow for additional funding to be provided to domestic shelters and maternity homes throughout the state. The MCC submitted testimony in support of SB 155, stating that the bill  provides a cost-effective way for the State of Missouri to support women in need and promote a culture of life.