“Urging Senators to Pass Legislation for Child Tax Credit Expansion and Small Business Relief”

In a rare show of bipartisanship, the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024, a bill aimed at expanding the Child Tax Credit and providing much-needed relief for small businesses. The legislation, which could lift millions of children out of poverty and boost the economy, is now awaiting approval in the U.S. Senate.

With a quarter of West Virginia’s children living in poverty, the passage of this bill could have a significant impact on the state. West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture, Kent A. Leonhardt, is urging Senators Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito to support the legislation, which would benefit at least 87,000 children in the state.

The Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act is not just about fighting poverty, but also about providing tax relief to businesses. By allowing companies to deduct research and development expenses and write off equipment investments, the bill aims to help businesses grow and create more opportunities for families.

With the expiration of the 2017 Trump tax cuts looming, there may not be another opportunity to pass these crucial reforms. It is essential for lawmakers to act quickly and support this legislation, which offers a balanced approach to addressing poverty and stimulating economic growth without adding to the deficit.

As Commissioner Leonhardt emphasizes, this bill is a win-win for West Virginia and the nation. It is time for Senators to come together and prioritize the well-being of children and families by passing this important legislation.