As Massachusetts lawmakers work to finalize tax-relief measures, advocates for low-income families are calling for an expansion of tax credits proven to reduce poverty. Advocates want to increase the Earned Income Tax Credit state match rate from 30% to 50%, expand the credit to working immigrants and pass an inclusive Child and Family Tax Credit. Charlotte Bruce, senior research and policy analyst for Children s HealthWatch, said the tax credits will ultimately benefit the entire state. .
May is Community Action Month, and Minnesota agencies that help address poverty say demand for services isn t going away. To help clients thrive, they re adding some new parts to their revenue engines. Community Action Agencies create and help carry out programs that assist struggling households in accessing aid such as energy bill relief, tax preparation and job training. .
May is Community Action Month, and in North Dakota, groups trying to help households escape poverty are gathering feedback on which obstacles are the biggest. It coincides with potential legislative efforts to study housing barriers. Census data show that in 2021, more than 11% of North Dakotans were living in poverty. .