The expanded Child Tax Credits enacted by President Biden and Democrats is already delivering thousands of dollars to working Pennsylvania families has been a success, and activists and economists agree that it’s time for Congress to make the CTC permanent.
Just yesterday, 450 economists signed an open letter urging Congress to pursue a permanent extension of President Biden’s child tax credit program. They argue that initial research showed a permanent child tax credit would “dramatically reduce childhood poverty” by improving educational, health-related and career outcomes for low-income youth. The letter also cited a study that concluded a permanent program would cost 16 cents for every $1 in new economic benefits.
It is not hard to see why Pennsylvanians so desperately need this tax credit. Analysts say it’s a “game changer” for cities with high child poverty rates, including Reading, Allentown and Philadelphia. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the tax credit covers about 90% of all Pennsylvania children under 18 in some capacity.
“Three months in, the evidence is clear: the expanded CTC is a big win for working families in Pennsylvania, and Congress must act to ensure it remains available. By passing legislation making the expanded CTC permanent, Congress can ensure that our children here in Pennsylvania will be able to count on this relief for years.” said PA Dems Spokesperson Rosie Lapowsky “It is past time we invest in our children in Pennsylvania. Let’s start by making Biden’s child tax credit permanent.”
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