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(CNN) — The share of Americans, particularly children, in poverty rose significantly last year, in large part because Congress did not renew a Covid-19 pandemic enhancement to the child tax
The share of Americans, particularly children, in poverty rose significantly last year, in large part because Congress did not renew a Covid-19 pandemic enhancement to the child tax credit, according to Census Bureau data released Tuesday.
The COVID-19 pandemic had devastating health, economic and social consequences. In New York, the pandemic and ensuing economic shutdown produced almost 2 million job losses in 2020. Yet for many, economic hardships existed long before this time.
Experts don’t all agree on what drove the drop in child poverty — or how to keep the rate falling. American Enterprise Institute researcher Angela Rachidi says it’s work requirements in safety net programs. The Child Trends report suggests it’s the earned income tax credit, child tax credit and other forms of help. They also cite child care assistance, paid leave as ways to help keep the trend going. The Census Bureau seems to agree.
With little public notice and accelerating speed, child poverty fell by 59 percent from 1993 to 2019, according to a comprehensive new analysis that shows the critical role of increased government aid.