Child tax credit best option to fight poverty

Thanks for the editorial about Washington’s oppressive tax system, the current state surplus, and the coming tax reform (“Taxpayers deserve down-payment on tax reforms,” The Herald, Feb. 6)

The state tax system has definitely been a factor in widening the gap between the haves and the have-nots, with those experiencing poverty paying a much larger share of their income in taxes. Hopefully, next year’s reform will bring a more equitable system. But as for this current surplus, there is really little to be realized from a 1 percent sales tax reduction because of record inflation, especially for those who need it most. The recent federal increase in the child tax credit provides a better example: it reached those most in need immediately, lifted 3.7 million children out of poverty, and brought a ladder out of poverty to millions of families, with dollars used for rent, food, and bills (Columbia University study).

In spite of such great results this monthly refundable tax credit ended, leaving families in a lurch. A perfect opportunity for our state to step in and provide a monthly benefit for families, derived from the current surplus. Meantime each of us can take action to insure these equity builders continue: Calling on Congress to re-instate the increased monthly refundable child tax credit, and asking our state to use the surplus to fill the gap for families in the meantime.

Willie Dickerson

Snohomish