Carmen Clarkin, special assistant for strategic initiatives at Connecticut Voices for Children, highlighted that while the state has improved in health metrics and education rankings, high housing costs remain a significant barrier to progress. “Connecticut ranks 44th in the nation for housing cost burden, reflecting one of the most severe affordability challenges in the country,” Clarkin noted. “Housing costs have steadily increased over the past decade, significantly impacting the state’s overall economic well-being.” This year’s budget includes initiatives to support children’s well-being, such as increased investments in early childhood care and education. However, Clarkin expressed disappointment that a state child tax credit was not included, though lawmakers introduced a $250 state income tax break for low-income families under the Earned Income Tax Credit program. Additionally, Connecticut faces potential challenges from a Congressional budget reconciliation bill proposing cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. Leslie Boissiere of the Annie E. Casey Foundation urged policymakers to consider data on food security, healthcare access, and child well-being before finalizing decisions. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the bill could lead to 16 million people losing health insurance and increase the federal deficit by nearly $2.5 trillion.
— new from Connecticut by the Numbers
