Writer Proposes Tax Credit Proposed for Assisting Moms and Families

[1] Enclosed is a correspondence from Ms. Maureen Murphy, Chairman, Cook County Board of Review regarding a proposal to create a tax credit for Assisting Moms and Families (A.M.F.). We are forwarding this correspondence for your consideration.

[2] If I can be of assistance, do not hesitate to contact me at (202) 693-2784.

[4] Being attentive to the needs and changing dynamics of America's workforce while promoting values of the family are challenging in a highly competitive marketplace. The current Administration's efforts to strengthen the family unit is laudable, but must be linked to the realities of the workplace and needs of local communities. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a beneficial tool in assisting working families within certain income levels, but I respectfully request your consideration of a proposal that would assist single and married mothers within certain income levels.

[5] The "next step" beyond the EITC can be a tax credit for mothers who need additional income, desire to be at home at appropriate times for their children, and have the ability to contribute to their local community. A desire to nurture the children and provide a stable, attentive home environment without the prohibitive costs of day care should not be unattainable. The proposed "Assisting Moms and Families" (AMF) tax credit would be available to mothers whose total household income is capped and who commits herself to a position of employment within her immediate community, such as at a local school or nursing home facility. A zip code requirement could be used to ensure the mother receiving the AMF credit was employed in the vicinity of her home, and thereby contributing to their local community.

[6] The AMF tax credit proposal is one idea to encourage a positive family environment and stimulate involvement in the local community. Today, few mothers have the ability to tailor their working hours to the needs of their children, or do not have the financial ability to afford day care services. Too few mothers are home when their children return from school, or are home during spring, or summer breaks.

[7] Guidance is needed in a child's upbringing, and the federal government should encourage the family unit to thrive through the option of tax incentives.

[8] Thank you for your consideration of the aforementioned proposal. Mothers who must work to afford the costs of raising children should not have to compromise the well being of their children. Mothers who are at home for their children provide necessary stability, and hopefully the Department of Labor can develop an incentive that promotes mom and family. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any future assistance to you.