PolicyEngine’s latest study reveals the potential impact of the policy, which provides crucial financial relief to families in the District and complements the District Child Tax Credit.
At Mother’s Outreach Network (MON), we advocate for policies that uplift and empower Black mothers and their families. The Financial Support for Families with Children (FSFC) Amendment Act of 2023, introduced by DC Councilmember Zachary Parker, is a proposed tax credit that could provide substantial financial relief to families in the District of Columbia. MON is proud to have partnered with and supported the creation of a new study that evaluates the impact of this proposal, specifically its potential to reduce Black poverty rates in DC. We urge the DC Council to immediately pass this legislation and ensure the benefits reach those who need them most, complementing the District Child Tax Credit (DCTC) and addressing the pressing issue of Black child poverty in DC.
Research Findings
PolicyEngine’s recent MON-supported study analyzed the proposed Financial Support for Families with Children Amendment Act and its potential impacts on families in DC, with a focus on Black poverty rates. According to the study’s findings, the FSFC would cost about $27 million, reach 10% of the DC population, and decrease income inequality by 0.3%. It would also reduce poverty by 1.3%, including 5.2% among children and 1.8% among Blacks, making a meaningful impact on households of color in the District.
The FSFC’s design, which features a more targeted approach and a faster phase-out rate, sets it apart from other DC programs and may contribute to providing targeted support to low-income families. This is crucial for Black mothers and their families, as they often face multiple barriers in accessing resources and support.
In conjunction with the DCTC, as discussed in our previous blog post, the FSFC has the potential to create a comprehensive support system for Black mothers and their families in the District, addressing various income levels and unique needs.
Call to Action
As advocates for the inclusion and empowerment of Black mothers, MON strongly supports the Financial Support for Families with Children Amendment Act of 2023, introduced by Councilmember Zachary Parker. We believe that the potential benefits of this legislation, as revealed in our new study, including reduced child poverty and income inequality, align with our mission to transform government income and child welfare laws, policies, and practices.
We call on the DC Council to pass the Financial Support for Families with Children Amendment Act and ensure that the legislation is implemented effectively, complementing the DCTC to create a robust support system for Black mothers and their families. The need for financial relief among Black mothers and their families is urgent, and the enactment of this legislation will contribute to alleviating their struggle.
Furthermore, we encourage our community members and partners to join us in advocating for the passage of this crucial legislation. Together, we can create a better future for Black mothers and their families in the District of Columbia.
Conclusion
The Financial Support for Families with Children Amendment Act, introduced by Councilmember Zachary Parker, has the potential to create meaningful change for Black mothers and their families in DC, as demonstrated by the new MON-funded study. By passing this legislation and ensuring it complements the DCTC, the DC Council can demonstrate its commitment to advancing the inclusion and empowerment of Black mothers in the struggle for family preservation. Let us unite in our efforts to transform policies and practices that uplift and support our communities.
