Yesterday, advocates celebrated an exciting tax victory at the State House!
The Massachusetts Legislature has passed, and Governor Maura Healey has approved, an expansion of the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit and the creation of a new Child Family Tax Credit of $310 per dependent in 2023 that will increase to $440 per dependent in 2024.
This is a key policy change that creates more financial stability for families — and it is goal #3a of the Early Childhood Agenda.
Amy O’Leary, executive director of Strategies for Children, was there to celebrate.
The advocacy organization behind this work is the Healthy Families Tax Credits Coalition, which notes on its website:
“The expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child and Family Tax Credit, paired with attention to equitable and effective implementation, is a testament to the dedication of lawmakers who recognize the importance of providing financial relief to those who need it most. These provisions of the tax bill are critical steps toward a healthier and more prosperous Massachusetts.”
The coalition worked with Charlotte Bruce, the senior research and policy analyst, at Children’s HealthWatch.
Among the legislative supporters of the tax credits who spoke at the celebration are Representatives Marjorie Decker and Andy Vargas and Senators Sal DiDomenico and Jamie Eldridge.
To see the benefit of these tax credits at the community level, check out MassBudget’s tax credit dashboard. It shows the overall benefit to House and Senate districts. For example in the House’s First Suffolk district, which includes East Boston, the total 2023 Child Tax Credit will total $2.1 million. The 2024 benefit will total $3 million.
And be sure to join the celebration by Join the celebration by thanking Governor Healey and the Legislature using an email form set up the Healthy Families Tax Credit Coalition.
Helping families achieve more economic stability is a crucial step in helping young children thrive.
Leave a Reply