February 17, 2023: Advocacy Updates

February 17, 2023: Advocacy Updates

The legislative committee schedule is jampacked over the next few weeks. It's time to share our stories! Our items are advancing, and it's time to tell our stories why they matter! To learn more about our legislative priorities, visit https://uwwesternct.org/advocate

1. Thursday, February 23 at 4pm: No Cost School Meals at Appropriations Committe on Primary/Secondary Education  

We had a great victory with bringing back no-cost school meals for the remainder of the academic year! Now, the call is to provide support for continuing no-cost meals into future academic years.  

What to do by Wednesday, February 22: 1) Call your state representatives to ask for their support 2) Use the link above to register to testify in-person or via Zoom AND/OR submit written testimony.  

 2. Monday, February 27 at 9am: Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit at the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee 

The Governor included increasing the earned income tax credit (EITC) to 40% in his budget! Our focus is on establishing a permanent Child Tax Credit as a targeted, effective vehicle to provide material support for ALICE families. The Finance Committee public hearing on 2/27 includes SB 771 (CT Child Tax Credit) and SB 771 (EITC).  

What to do next week: 1) Use the link above to register to testify in-person or via Zoom, AND/OR submit written testimony.  

Do you have a story to tell about school meals? The benefit of receiving the child tax credit and earned income tax credit? Send us an email at news@uwwesternct.org.