Committee sends concurrent resolution backing federal adoption-education grants to print; sponsor seeks to clear federal restrictions

Sen. Julie VanOrden (R-District 30) presented RS32271, a concurrent resolution stating the Idaho Legislature’s support for receiving federal funds to expand adoption education, adoption awareness and birth-mother support and care.

VanOrden told the committee that, while working on adoption-related bills, her group identified federal grant programs that previously had gone to Idaho entities but have become unavailable because of federal requirements the state may no longer be able to satisfy. She said the resolution would declare the legislature’s support for accepting federal funds if federal grant language were adjusted so those funds could be used to support birth mothers and adoption education in Idaho.

Terry Markcroft, identified as founder and executive director of the nonprofit Unplanned Good, explained that national organizations are advocating for federal funding to increase adoption education and improve birth-mother care and support. Markcroft described four “buckets” for grant-funded activities including adoption education and birth-mother care and support, with subcategories such as material, physical and legal support and increased public awareness and safe-haven resources.

Committee members asked several questions about the grants’ terms. Senator Zanderfeld expressed concern about federal “strings attached” and asked whether advocates would examine grant language to avoid unintended requirements. Markcroft replied that the national group plans to work with Department of Health and Human Services advocates to ensure federal funding aligns with the stated objectives.

Senator Wintrow said she supports services for new mothers but was uncomfortable lacking the grant language; she said she planned to vote no at the committee stage and wanted more information about the grants’ restrictions. VanOrden and other senators replied that the resolution is intended as a precursor statement so state agencies would be able to apply for funds if federal language changes to allow those activities.

Senator Harris moved to introduce RS32271 and send it to print; the committee approved the motion by voice vote. The transcript shows discussion and a recorded indication that at least one senator planned to vote against the motion on principle because of unresolved questions about grant terms, but the resolution moved forward to printing for further consideration.

Ending: VanOrden and advocates said they will work with national partners and the Department of Health and Human Services to shape grant language and to prepare Idaho to apply if federal rules change.