Abstract
In July, 3 million kids were lifted from poverty by the expanded Child Tax Credit, which is estimated to slash child poverty by 40% in a typical year. Despite that success, the expanded Child Tax Credit expired at the end of 2021. Now, our leaders have a historic opportunity to continue to reduce child poverty. To do so, and to do so equitably, it is essential that the expanded Child Tax Credit be made permanent, that eligibility for children without Social Security numbers is restored, and that the credit continues to be offered without work requirements. These policy changes will help reduce child poverty further and decrease inequities in child poverty by income, race/ethnicity and nativity.