WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Gwen Moore (WI-04) introduced H.R. 5689, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Age Parity Act, which would eliminate age restrictions that presently prevent young and older workers without children from claiming the EITC. 

The largest anti-poverty program in American history, the EITC promotes workforce participation and stimulates economic growth. In 2021, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reports that 31 million workers and families received about $64 billion in EITC support, with each dollar generating $1.58 in local economic activity in cities and towns across the country. However, 7 million workers without children—2 million older workers 65 and over and 5 million young people between 18 and 24 who have no family support—are excluded from the EITC. 

“For no reason other than their age, millions of Americans are unable to claim the EITC, the single largest anti-poverty program in America,” said Rep. Chu. “I’m excited to work with Rep. Moore to eliminate arbitrary and unfair age restrictions in our tax code, decrease poverty, and improve the standard of life for millions of workers across the country.” 

“Rep. Judy Chu and I have a shared commitment to expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, which is why I’m honored to join her in leading the EITC Age Parity Act,” said Rep. Moore. “It’s wrong and unfair that younger and older childless workers are taxed into poverty, and this legislative solution is what working people need now.” 

“We applaud the leadership of Rep. Chu and Rep. Moore on behalf of the EITC Age Parity Act to permanently eliminate age restrictions that prevent young and older workers from claiming the EITC,” said Amy Everitt, President of Golden State Opportunity. “This invaluable tax credit boosts workforce participation and sparks local economic growth. Yet, we need to make sure our policies better serve the workers who have been left behind by our best policies.” 

“The Critical Labor Coalition applauds Rep. Chu and Rep. Moore for expanding the age limits for EITC eligibility. It will not only assist those workers in need, but it will encourage a much-needed return to the workplace,” said Misty Chally, Executive Director, Critical Labor Coalition. 

“The CFA supports the important piece of legislation, as it would assist local franchisees currently facing labor shortages in their businesses,” said John Motta, Chairman of the Coalition of Franchisee Associations. 

Click here for the full bill text. 

 

 

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