Lehigh Times

Dec. 15, 2023 - The recently signed Fiscal Code bill in Pennsylvania includes an important enhancement to the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, a measure that has been strongly advocated for by Rep. Ryan Mackenzie. This enhancement aims to provide working families with much-needed relief from the high costs of childcare and dependent care expenses.

Rep. Mackenzie has been a vocal supporter of this issue since introducing his legislation earlier this year. The inclusion of this proposal in the Fiscal Code is a significant step towards addressing the financial challenges faced by Pennsylvania families.

The new law increases the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to match the federal credit, allowing for up to $3,000 for one qualifying individual and $6,000 for two or more qualifying individuals, starting in the tax year 2023. This change will provide substantial financial support to families struggling with the costs of caring for their children and dependents.

In expressing his satisfaction with the outcome, Rep. Mackenzie said, "When I introduced my Pennsylvania Families Tax Relief bill package earlier this year, the intent was to provide a variety of budget options that would help working families deal with the high costs of everyday life. I am pleased that this proposal was included in the 2023-24 Fiscal Code and is now law."

The enhancement of the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit is just one component of Rep. Mackenzie's broader Pennsylvania Families Tax Relief package. This comprehensive package includes several other bills aimed at providing tax relief and exemptions to alleviate the financial burden on families.

Some of the bills in Rep. Mackenzie's package include exemptions from the Sales and Use Tax for children's and library books, toys, cribs and strollers, and youth sports equipment. There are also provisions for tax holidays to assist families in making home improvements or preparing for the school year. Additionally, the package includes measures to reduce taxes on electric bills, pet food, cell phone bills, and inheritance taxes for direct descendants and siblings.

"I will continue to push for more tax relief for all Pennsylvanians in next year's budget," stated Rep. Mackenzie. He acknowledged the challenges faced by families due to the high cost of living and inflation, which has been exacerbated by overspending in Washington, D.C. Rep. Mackenzie believes that by lowering the tax burden, the government can help alleviate some of the financial strain faced by Pennsylvania residents.

The inclusion of the enhancement to the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit in the Fiscal Code bill is a positive step towards supporting working families in Pennsylvania. Rep. Mackenzie's ongoing efforts to provide tax relief and exemptions demonstrate his commitment to addressing the financial challenges faced by his constituents.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.repmackenzie.com/News/33303/Latest-News/Fiscal-Code-Includes-Enhancement-of-Child-and-Dependent-Care-Tax-Credit-Mackenzie-Championed