US Representatives Introduce Bill to End Child Poverty

Washington, D.C. (August 19, 2023) – Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jesús García (IL-04), and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) today re-introduced the End Child Poverty Act, legislation that would replace the current child tax credit with a universal child benefit of $393 per month per child. The benefit would be paid out by the Social Security Administration until the child turns 18.

“The End Child Poverty Act is a bold initiative that would put money in the pockets of families and help lift millions of children out of poverty,” said Tlaib. “In the richest country in the world, no family should have to choose between keeping a roof over their head and putting food on the table to feed their children. This legislation would make a real difference in the lives of children and families across our country.”

The End Child Poverty Act is estimated to reduce child poverty by 64%. It would also benefit families of all income levels, including those who do not currently qualify for the child tax credit.

“Poverty is a policy choice, not an inevitability,” said García. “This legislation would help ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their family’s income.”

“The End Child Poverty Act is a moral imperative,” said Omar. “We cannot afford to allow millions of children to grow up in poverty. This legislation would make a real difference in the lives of children and families across our country.”

The End Child Poverty Act is supported by a broad coalition of organizations, including the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the Economic Policy Institute, and the National Women’s Law Center.

“The End Child Poverty Act is a critical step towards ending child poverty in the United States,” said Chuck Marr, Director of Tax Policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. “This legislation would provide a lifeline to millions of families and help ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.”

“The End Child Poverty Act is a bold and ambitious proposal that would make a real difference in the lives of children and families,” said Robert Greenstein, President of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. “This legislation is essential to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

“The End Child Poverty Act is a win-win for families and the economy,” said Heidi Shierholz, President of the Economic Policy Institute. “This legislation would help lift millions of children out of poverty and boost economic growth.”

“The End Child Poverty Act is a critical investment in our future,” said Fatima Goss Graves, President and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center. “This legislation would help ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their family’s income.”

The End Child Poverty Act is now pending before the House Ways and Means Committee.