Kevin Brady: “First, I want to thank the leadership of Congresswoman Jenkins' on such an important issue for families. We have two…”

“First, I want to thank the leadership of Congresswoman Jenkins' on such an important issue for families. We have two young boys. It is expensive raising kids--it just is--all across America. I don't care what you make or where you live. This is about making it a little easier to raise your children. You have heard today that everyone is for the child tax credit except, of course, when they have to vote for the tax credit. Then you hear every excuse in the world. Let's look at what this bill does: First, it makes permanent this child tax credit so people can count on it. It is indexed for inflation, so that means, when your dollar buys less and less, you shouldn't be punished by Uncle Sam because inflation is going up. It is so families can more closely keep up with the real costs of raising their kids. It eliminates the marriage penalty so Uncle Sam doesn't punish you--so the Federal Government doesn't punish you--simply because you are married and are raising your children. We think it is important that married couples who are struggling to raise families aren't punished by Uncle Sam, and it makes sure more Americans can take advantage of this. Here is what it doesn't do: It doesn't include the same failed stimulus programs the White House brought down upon America. As you know, we were promised the economy would be roaring. America normally bounces back from tough economic times, but not this time.…”