AB 1690 would expand California's Young Child Tax Credit to reach older children, supporters say

Assemblymember Arons presented AB 1690, a proposal to expand California's Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) so more families with low incomes can receive refundable tax relief beyond the current under-age-6 cutoff.

Anisha Nair, policy analyst at the California Budget and Policy Center, told the committee that the YCTC currently reaches roughly 400,000 families but excludes many low-income households when children age out at 6. "When their child turns 6, the family is only eligible for the Cal EITC, which results in an almost 70% decrease in benefits," Nair said, urging expansion to reduce a benefits "cliff."

Parents and advocates stressed the credit's role in basic needs and long-term outcomes. Jamie Bender, a parent who testified in support, said the credit helps pay for essentials like school supplies and child care and urged the committee to expand eligibility.

Multiple advocacy organizations, including United Ways of California and the Stronger California Coalition, registered strong support. No primary opposition testified in committee. Chair Gibson referred the bill to the suspense file for further review.