Economic Opportunity
Low Unemployment Masks Continued Economic Concerns for Southwestern Virginia
Ensuring that as many individuals with the ability to work have the opportunity to do so is a key indicator of a healthy economy.
Room for Improvement: Opportunities Remain to Increase Access to Free Meals for Kids in Virginia
In Virginia, 1 out of 7 children live in families that struggle with food insecurity, meaning they lack consistent access to enough food for a healthy, active life. The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) is a crucial federal program to combat this problem of childhood hunger by providing students attending high-poverty schools and school districts with a free and nutritious breakfast and lunch. Unfortunately,
New Study Shows Lack of Economic Mobility, Limiting Opportunity for Black, Hispanic, and American Indian Adults
We all want to live in a society where every child has a chance to reach their full potential and every parent can support their family with dignity. Yet, as shown in a new study of economic immobility, entrenched barriers mean too many families – particularly families of color – are left without those opportunities.
Legislators Should Act During Reconvened Session to Increase Opportunity
Legislators have the opportunity to take action on April 3 to strengthen our communities so that every Virginian, no matter what they look like or where they were born, has a better shot at reaching their full potential.
A Refundable EITC Helps Working Families in Every District: Spring 2019 Update
Over 600,000 of Virginia’s working families currently receive the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For families struggling to make...
Senate Proposes Improving Support for Low-Income Families Who Have Seen Decades of Cuts
While many of the House and Senate amendments cut the introduced budget there are some areas where one or both chambers have offered improvements. One is the Senate’s proposal
Let’s Make Sure the Census Counts Every Virginian
Equal representation in Congress, the state legislature, and county board of supervisors. Funding for schools, highways, and healthcare. All this...
Understanding the Earned Income Tax Credit and How Virginia Can Improve Its State Credit
A targeted working families tax credit can help families earning low wages meet basic needs. For families struggling to make...
No Same-Day Delivery: Virginia Communities Deserve Time to Consider Amazon Deal
Announcements of job projections related to economic development deals can be exciting opportunities for elected officials, but it’s critical that elected leadership, media, and the rest of us take a careful look at the realistic benefits and drawbacks of the deal, including related public subsidies and the tradeoffs that come with adding thousands – or tens of thousands – of jobs.