“When U.S. Senate Republicans killed a temporary expansion of the Child Tax Credit today, they rejected a policy that’s proven to lift our economy and to be a sure-fire way for people to have the tools they need to be able to work, take care of their families, and contribute to their communities. The U.S. House of Representatives passed this bipartisan, urgently needed bill in late January and instead of doing the same, Senate Republicans dealt a painful, devastating blow to families, businesses that need workers, and our economy as a whole. 

“This is legislation the country needs. The expanded Child Tax Credit enacted during the pandemic was proof-positive that this policy works because after it was enacted, we saw historic gains, including increased labor force participation; families better able to meet rising costs for things like child care, groceries, rent, gas and school supplies; and businesses that weren’t experiencing as many supply chain issues caused by worker shortages. This policy works and America’s moms want lawmakers to continue the progress. President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris strongly support the bill, as do an overwhelming bipartisan majority in the House. Yet Republican Senators killed it today. It is particularly galling that Senator J.D. Vance missed today’s vote, which makes it indisputably clear that his rhetoric about supporting families with children is utterly insincere.

“The bill Senate Republicans rejected today would allow parents to work, raise and care for their families, make ends meet, and contribute to our communities and our economy. Additionally, it would lift as many as 400,000 children out of poverty this year and boost small businesses. Moms, children, businesses, and our economy would benefit. It was unconscionable for Senate Republicans to kill it today. Every Senator who voted ‘no’ will have to answer to his or her constituents.”