Healthy Families EITC Coalition Submits Written Testimony to the MA Joint Committee on Revenue
On December 13, 2021, the Healthy Families EITC Coalition submitted testimony to Chairman Hinds, Chairman Cusack, and distinguished members of the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Revenue on H.2871/S.1841: An Act to increase family stabilization through the earned income tax credit, and S.1852: An Act providing a guaranteed minimum income to all Massachusetts families.
The Healthy Families EITC Coalition is a statewide nonpartisan network of advocates working to improve the health and well-being of Massachusetts children and families through an increase in the state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and supporting free tax preparation sites. Our 30-plus member coalition, convened by Children’s HealthWatch at Boston Medical Center, is comprised of a diverse array of community-based agencies, legal advocates, professional associations, civil rights organizations, and most importantly – Massachusetts workers and their families. In considering this legislation, we point out to the Committee that the EITC and other direct cash payments are evidence-based programs to improve health and promote racial equity, and that bold expansions to the EITC will alleviate financial hardship and help families get ahead. Additionally, we point out that improvements to state EITCs are cost-effective and sustainable, and that other states have expanded the EITC and invested in direct cash payments for families.
