A Safety Net for American Children

Even as recently as a year ago, even the most cleareyed analysts thought it was a long shot. But this week, a child tax credit is expected to be passed into law, as part of the economic stimulus bill. The child tax credit is an income guarantee for American families with children. It will provide a monthly check of up to $300 per child — no matter how many children. We look at why this provision is so revolutionary and what has changed in the policy landscape to allow its passage.