Rep. Gwen Moore Votes Against $80 Billion Tax Package Expanding Child Tax Credit
WASHINGTON – Milwaukee Representative Gwen Moore, a prominent advocate for low-income children and families, made a surprising move when she opposed a nearly $80 billion tax package aimed at expanding the child tax credit. Despite her historical focus on this issue, Moore cited concerns that the proposed measures fall short in addressing the needs of the poorest families, who she believes should be the primary recipients of enhanced support.
Concerns for the Poorest Families
Moore, a Democrat, expressed her reservations about the tax package during a debate on the bill, stating, “The proposal is an improvement, slightly. But if it’s supposed to be a child subsidy — the full credit is not provided to the lowest, lowest, lowest, poorest of the poor children. It’s an upside down incentive.”
While Moore’s opposition did not pose a threat to the legislation, as it passed the House with an overwhelming 357-70 vote, her dissenting voice highlights the ongoing debates surrounding the holistic effectiveness of the tax package in assisting the most vulnerable families.
Bill Details and Key Stakeholders
The negotiated tax package, spearheaded by Missouri Republican Representative Jason Smith and Oregon Democratic Senator Ron Wyden, aims to gradually expand the child tax credit over the next three years to help millions of children living in poverty. However, it falls short of the one-year child tax credit expansion implemented in 2021 through the American Rescue Plan Act.
The bill incorporates tax credits for businesses, including those related to domestic research and development, interest expenses, and equipment investments. The proposal seeks to make the child tax credit more accessible to families with multiple children, with a gradual increase in refundable portions, starting at $1,800 per child and adjusting for inflation.
Potential Impact and Disagreements
By lifting about 400,000 children out of poverty and reaching up to 16 million children in low-income families in its initial year, the expanded credit offers hope for those in need. However, some Democrats remain critical, arguing that the package neglects the poorest families, lacking the extensive provisions of the 2021 child tax credit expansion.
Connecticut Representative Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the Committee on Appropriations, raised concerns over a policy choice that excludes the most financially distressed families. These debates also encompass the ongoing contention between the parties surrounding welfare and work requirements.
Split Opinions Within Wisconsin’s Delegation
The Wisconsin delegation showcased a division of opinion on the bill. While Democratic Representative Mark Pocan and Republican Representative Tom Tiffany joined Moore in opposing the legislation, Republican Representative Glenn Grothman displayed support, deeming the bill a favorable outcome for the middle class. Republican Representatives Mike Gallagher and Derrick Van Orden noted positive aspects, such as the elimination of the COVID-era employee retention credit, which aimed to prevent fraudulent claims.
Future Outlook and Moore’s Stance
Gwen Moore expressed support for certain provisions in the bill that allow families with multiple children to receive more financial assistance and utilize prior year income for calculating tax credits. However, these concessions weren’t substantial enough to secure her vote, as she calls for measures that extend further in supporting the most economically distressed families.
