Most parents support expanded child tax credit, poll says

Eighty-five percent of parents of small children want federal lawmakers to revive the expanded child tax credit to help families struggling amid rising inflation, according to a new poll from Zero To Three, an advocacy organization. 

The expansion of the child tax credit, as part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, lifted many children out of poverty. However, when the credit expired at the end of 2021, nearly 4 million children slid back below the poverty line. 

Nearly three-fourths of those surveyed also said that Congress should not pass any more tax cuts for corporations, as part of a pending year-end spending package, until it reinstates the child tax credit. It should be noted that this finding was bipartisan, with 85% of parents who voted Democratic and 67% of parents who voted Republican agreeing with the statement.

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reported that more than 90% of families making less than $35,000 a year used the monthly child tax credit to pay for basics such as food, clothing, shelter and utilities.

Many conservative politicians continue to oppose the benefit, however, arguing that it may discourage parents from working.