Neal Remarks on H.R. 3936 at Markup of GOP Tax Scam 2.0

(As prepared for delivery)

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The title of this legislation is laudable, and a priority Committee Democrats share unequivocally. It sadly doesn’t live up to its bill, and with the proven success of the Child Tax Credit, I cannot accept this as an alternative for working families. 

A majority of their Tax Scam 2.0 focuses on restoring corporate giveaways to the wealthy and well-connected before restoring the tax credits that cut child poverty in half, and in this provision, we see that even when Republicans try to cut taxes for families, they miss those who need it most. The poorest fifth of Americans would receive just 2 percent of the benefits of this provision, and on average, that means a tax break of just $30 next year. 

As the only change to the individual side of the tax code, I must admit it feels like an afterthought. Why ignore one of the most important policies for working families if cutting taxes for working families is the goal? 

Democrats’ expanded Child Tax Credit changed lives in 2021. With full refundability, those with the highest need were finally able to access this support, which in turn, grew the economy and spread opportunity. I’m disappointed we can’t unite on pulling more children from the lifecycle of poverty.

With that, I yield back the balance of my time.