It's to move a person to a job. If work is the most important outcome, then we need to look at how to support families at work. The trouble is, Gould said, despite newfound surpluses, the federal budget for these programs is expected to drop dramatically in the next few years. The rest will hit housing assistance and other programs. The Children's Alliance and other advocacy groups are asking the state Legislature to increase assistance to the working poor and to consider tax breaks that would target working families.
Tax relief can have a big impact on low-income families because they start from a lower base.
Gov. Gary Locke has proposed a reduction in the motor vehicle excise tax. Currently, state subsidies pay less than the market rate for child care, severely limiting the facilities willing to accept subsidized payment. Expanding the Basic Health Plan to provide health insurance for working families. Expanding meal programs and food banks. And her work hours are limited by the hours her child care facility is open.