Nassau Standard

Assemblyman Ed Ra from Franklin Square has expressed his support for the governor's proposal to expand the Child Tax Credit in New York. Ra described the initiative as a positive development for families across the state, noting that nearly half of all parents find their current child care situation unmanageable. The proposed expansion aligns with a previous proposal by the Assembly Minority Conference aimed at providing financial relief to parents.

The expansion is expected to benefit over 2.75 million children in New York. Families with children under four years old could receive up to $1,000 per child annually, while those with children aged four to 16 could receive up to $500 per child. This plan represents the largest expansion of the credit in New York's history and aims to double the average credit for families while extending eligibility to middle-class households. It is anticipated that this will significantly reduce child poverty and offer essential financial relief amid rising costs.

Ra and his colleagues have consistently supported policies that improve access and affordability of child care. Last March, they introduced the ABC Plan, which included proposals for expanding the Child Tax Credit, increasing tax incentives for families and providers, broadening early childhood education access, and addressing workforce shortages in the sector.

"The ABC plan we introduced was in direct response to the growing crisis in high-quality, affordable child care across New York," said Ra. "I’m pleased to see the governor take action on this critical issue. This proposal represents a bipartisan opportunity to deliver real solutions for parents, children and providers."

"Spending money this way—rather than pouring money into failed tax credits for favored businesses—is a smarter, more effective use of taxpayer dollars and ensures resources are spent where they will truly make a difference."

"It is a long-overdue investment in the future of our children. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to see it through and ensure the expanded Child Tax Credit truly meets the needs of families in every corner of New York," Ra added.