Economic Opportunity
Proposed TANF Improvements Will Help Rebuild the State’s Safety Net and Advance Racial Equity
An economy that works for everyone is one where all families are able to make ends meet and put food on the table, yet not every family in Virginia has benefited from the growing economy.
Virginia is Ready for a Paid Family & Medical Leave Program
A statewide paid family and medical leave program would allow more working people in Virginia the opportunity to take time off to care – time to care for themselves, a loved one, or a new addition to the family.
Stop Excluding Domestic Workers From Minimum Wage Protections
Everyone in Virginia deserves the same basic protections against wage theft, unsafe conditions, and sub-poverty wages whether they work in a private home or a large corporation.
Building on What Works: A Refundable EITC Would Support Families in Every District and Locality
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a commonsense way to support families with low to moderate incomes. Over 600,000 of Virginia’s working families currently receive the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which helps families to put food on the table, keep up with utility bills, and afford other necessities. The federal EITC is one of the most effective tools to bring families above the poverty line.
Raising the Wage in Virginia Will Benefit Working Families
Everyone in Virginia working a full-time job should be paid enough to provide for their family. However, for many this is not the case.
Only Wealthy Immigrants Need Apply: The Chilling Effects of “Public Charge”
A co-release from The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis and the Fiscal Policy Institute In August 2019, the Department of...
In Potential Year-end Tax Legislation, Federal Lawmakers Must Remember to Support Families
A fair economy that works for everyone means families are able to provide for themselves and their children. That means having enough food to eat, reliable transportation, and other necessities.
New Census Income and Poverty Data: Stalled Progress Means Virginia May Begin Next Recession With Poverty Rates That Are Still Elevated From Prior Recession
Incomes remained fairly steady in 2018 for middle-class Virginia households after adjusting for inflation, yet poverty rates remain well above pre-recession levels and income inequality is increasing. Compared to two years ago, median household income is up 1.9% in Virginia to $72,577 in 2018.
Proposed Trump Rule Changes to Food Assistance Would Eliminate Flexibility for States
No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and making a rent payment. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps families afford healthy food without sacrificing other necessities.