Sign-On! The Expansion of District Child Tax Credit Act & Support the Financial Support for Families with Children Act
The Honorable Chairperson Philip Mendleson, The Honorable Committee Chair Kenyan McDuffie, Council of the District of Columbia
More than 1 in 10 D.C. residents live in poverty, and income inequality in D.C. remains one of the highest in the nation. The District Child Tax Credit law passed in the Budget Support Act provides a critical tool to reduce poverty and bridge income gaps for families. These acts offer a pathway to greater economic stability, specifically for families that need it the most. The passage of the District Child Tax Credit Act is a step in the right direction, however we ask for expansion to include children under age 17 and to approval of the Financial Support for Families with Children Amendment Act of 2023. According to analyses performed by Policy Engine, each bill as originally proposed and on its own would cost about $27 million and reduce child poverty by about 5%. Together, they would cut child poverty in the District by roughly 10%.
Petition by
To:
The Honorable Chairperson Philip Mendleson, The Honorable Committee Chair Kenyan McDuffie, Council of the District of Columbia
From:
[Your Name]
Dear Council Chair Mendelson and Committee Chair McDuffie:
More than 1 in 10 D.C. residents live in poverty, and income inequality in D.C. remains one of the highest in the nation. The District Child Tax Credit law passed in the Budget Support Act provides a critical tool to reduce poverty and bridge income gaps for families. These acts offer a pathway to greater economic stability, specifically for families that need it the most. The passage of the District Child Tax Credit Act is a step in the right direction, however we ask for expansion to include children under age 17 and to approval of the Financial Support for Families with Children Amendment Act of 2023. According to analyses performed by Policy Engine, each bill as originally proposed and on its own would cost about $27 million and reduce child poverty by about 5%. Together, they would cut child poverty in the District by roughly 10%.
By implementing these measures, we can provide direct cash assistance to families, ensuring they have the flexibility to address their unique needs. This approach also promotes the economic security and dignity of families while supporting children’s long-term development and well-being.
We strongly urge the Council to prioritize these acts in the upcoming budget discussions and work towards a D.C. that supports all its families.
Sincerely,