Lawmakers boost tax credit for families with young kids

The Oregon House gave final legislative approval Thursday to legislation that increases the Earned Income Tax Credit for families with young children, said Rep. Knute Buehler, R-Bend, a chief sponsor of the bill.

The vote came a day after the Senate passed HB 4110, he said.

“The EITC is a proven tool for relieving poverty,” Buehler said in a statement “Unlike the minimum wage hike, it will not cost jobs, nor increase the cost of living, and the EITC ensures the money goes to those who need it most – struggling families.”

“The EITC, and other similar anti-poverty programs, are critical to providing stable homes for children,” the lawmaker said. “There is increasing evidence showing that financial opportunity and success starts with strong families and safe homes free of trauma.”

HB 4110 increases the Oregon Earned Income Tax Credit from 8 percent of the federal credit to 11 percent for Oregonians with a child under 3 years old.