Connecticut Committee Approves Permanent Child Tax Credit Plan

CONNECTICUT — The state's first permanent, refundable child tax credit moved forward this week with the passage of a new revenue bill by the state’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee.

The credit would provide $150 per child for up to three children — a maximum of $450 per household — and would be available to single filers earning up to $100,000 annually, heads of household earning up to $160,000, and joint filers earning up to $200,000.

"Connecticut families are struggling, and it’s our responsibility to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive," said Rep. Kate Farrar, D-West Hartford/Newington, a lead supporter of the proposal. "Establishing this credit will provide much-needed direct relief to families in every community in our state."

House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said the measure creates a fairer tax code and could also help stimulate local economies.

The tax relief initiative was highlighted as a major victory for working families by Rep. Antonio Felipe, D-Bridgeport, chair of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus. "The goal now should be making this a sign of things to come," Felipe said.

Rep. Maria Horn, D-Canaan/Cornwall/Goshen/Kent/Norfolk, House chair of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, said the proposal is particularly timely as rising costs continue to strain family budgets.

The credit is included in Senate Bill 1246, which passed out of committee. Other proposals for a child tax credit this session included House Bill 5986, led by Farrar and Felipe, and Senate Bill 740, introduced by Senate President Martin Looney, D-New Haven.

Lawmakers are now working to secure the measure’s inclusion in the final state budget package.