Senator Jim DeMint

Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC) is known to be a tireless advocate of public policies that secure a freer and more just America. In addition to Senator DeMint’s important work in the areas of fiscal policy and promoting a strong national defense, he is committed to promoting values that put families first. To that end, Senator DeMint’s work and passion for adoption policy has been evidenced during his time in Congress.  DeMint, currently a member of CCAI’s Advisory Board, has worked with the National Council for Adoption and colleagues in both the House and Senate for tax relief for adoptive families. His important work on the Adoption Tax Credit has helped ease the financial burden for families as they ensure that thousands of children find a permanent, loving home.

In addition to supporting adoptive families through the tax code, DeMint has shown his commitment to children and families by proactively bringing stakeholders in the adoption community together to discuss policy issues.  These adoption workshops with the Department of State and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, as well as state adoption agencies, have been instrumental in bringing participants up-to-date on changes to adoption requirements regulated by The Hague, the international body responsible for unifying adoption standards.

DeMint is a member of National Council for Adoption's Hall of Fame, and has participated in CCAI’s Angels in Adoption™ Program every year by honoring individuals from South Carolina for their commitment to children in need of homes.  In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Haiti, DeMint joined a bipartisan group of Congressional leaders in urging the Department of State to expedite and streamline the process for waiting adoptive US families adopting Haitian children. Senator DeMint continues to support efforts in the Senate to expand and extend the Adoption Tax Credit and looks for additional opportunities to promote adoption policy in his new role on the Advisory Board of the CCAI.

“It is important that we work tirelessly to advance policies that help families looking to adopt. There is no greater need for children than to be part of a secure, loving family. I look forward to serving in my new leadership role on the Board of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption and this opportunity to work with Members of Congress to ensure more children experience the love and protection of a permanent family that they need and deserve.”