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In Swing States Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor Major Federal Actions to Help Families

Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare, Paid Leave  

September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) finds bipartisan majorities of Americans in the six swing states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, as well as nationally, support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit  
  • funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit

The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 – the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. Bipartisan majorities in every swing state support reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (69-77%), including majorities of Republicans (60-71%) and Democrats (80-85%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats. 

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues, and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

FIRST ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
The higher Child Tax Credit during the pandemic lifted three million children out of poverty, and millions more low- and middle-income families were helped – all just from making a couple changes to a tax credit. When Congress let that law expire, millions of children fell back into poverty. That is unacceptable. Parents are dealing with rising costs of childcare, and so they need a higher child tax credit. Making it fully refundable no matter the parent’s income is necessary to get the full benefits to the poorest families. This is an easy and effective way to improve the well-being of children.

FIRST ARGUMENT AGAINST
The Child Tax Credit goes to many middle- and high-income parents who don’t need it. Increasing this tax credit will just put more money in the pockets of those well-off parents, who will just spend it on themselves, or save it for retirement. The higher tax credit was only meant to be a response to the widespread job losses caused by the pandemic, as a way to keep everyone afloat and stimulate the economy. But now, most people are back at work, and wages are up, so we don’t need to be giving out more money, especially not to middle- and high-income parents, and further increase the national debt.

SECOND ARGUMENT AGAINST
The Child Tax Credit was originally created as a way to give working parents a break, to help offset some of the costs of raising kids. It was never meant to be a full-on cash handout. Having the tax credit be fully refundable for everyone – even those who are able to work but don’t – just turns it into another entitlement program. Low income and unemployed parents already get many government benefits, such as Medicaid and food stamps. Even more welfare will discourage them from working. Every study on this proposal has found that it will likely lead hundreds of thousands of parents to decide to leave the workforce, which hurts the economy for everyone.

SECOND ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Even if some parents decide to leave their jobs to take care of their children, it’s estimated it would reduce the workforce by less than 1%. The long-term benefits of helping families with children and greatly reducing child poverty are much more significant. Poverty has terrible effects on children, and society as a whole. Studies show that increasing the living standards of children results in them doing better in school and earning more when they are adults, as well as reducing their likelihood of getting involved with drugs or crime. Increasing this tax credit is a smart, long-term investment to support families, improve communities, and grow the economy.

$6,000 Child Tax Credit for Parents of Newborns

Raising the Child Tax Credit to $6,000 for parents of children under the age of one is favored by majorities in every swing state (57-71%), including majorities of Democrats (65-79%). However, views are more mixed among Republicans. Majorities of Republicans are in support in Arizona, Georgia, and Michigan (60-66%), and they are statistically divided in Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin (47%-53%). Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%).

Support varies significantly by age. Among those under age 50 in the swing states more than three quarters are in support; among 50-64 year-olds a modest majority of 55% are in support; and for those age 65 and older, just 43% are in support and a majority of 57% are opposed.

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool

A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4 year-olds, is favored by 76% to 83% in the swing states. This includes majorities of Republicans (63-78%) and Democrats (90-94%). Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%).

FIRST ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Preschool has proven to be effective in preparing children by giving them social and academic skills that provide lasting benefits, so they are more likely to be better socially adjusted and more educated. This leads to more successful and rewarding lives. This is especially true for children from very low-income families, because it helps put them on a path out of poverty. It benefits Americans in the current world economy, where it has become increasingly necessary to be well educated.

FIRST ARGUMENT AGAINST
Providing free preschool might be good for the economy, but it’s not necessarily what’s best for families and parent-child relationships. As the evidence shows, preschool increases the number of working mothers, which leads to an increase in poor parenting. Instead of the government encouraging parents to send their 3- and 4-year-olds off to a public school by making it totally free, we should be encouraging parents to spend more time with their children during those crucial years.

SECOND ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Federal support for pre-school is a good investment. Studies have shown that quality preschool can result in around $3 in economic gains for every $1 invested. It has also resulted in less government spending. This is because the students who attend preschool earn more money when they get older, and thus rely less on government assistance or get in trouble with the law. Universal preschool also allows more parents to work full-time, earn more, and thus use less government services.

SECOND ARGUMENT AGAINST
Studies show that preschool is most beneficial for low-income families. Nearly all states already have programs targeted to low-income families. We do not need to be providing free preschool to higher income families who could afford it. Plus, there’s only a handful of universal preschool programs in the country and just not enough solid evidence yet that making preschool free for everyone is better than targeting it to low-income families.

THIRD ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
The evidence that does exist about making preschool free for all shows that it results in more low-income children participating. This is because, when programs have an income cut-off, families that make just slightly above that income are shut out, even though they still can’t afford to pay the full cost. Plus, targeting any program to just one income group requires creating a bureaucracy to constantly check people’s incomes. Not only does this cost money, but low-income parents often don’t have the time or resources to navigate a complicated bureaucracy. Universal preschool is both simpler and more effective.

THIRD ARGUMENT AGAINST
The federal government should not be getting even more involved in education. Whenever the federal government provides funding to states, there are strings attached. Once states start relying on the federal government to fund their preschools, then the federal government can start imposing their own standards for early education. This takes power away from the states and the voters in that state who may not agree with the federal government on what young children should be taught.

Subsidizing Childcare for Low and Middle-Income Families

Bipartisan majorities in every swing state (74-80%) support the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes majorities of Republicans (63-72%) and Democrats (85-93%). Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%).

FIRST ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
For many low- and middle-income families, the cost of childcare is so high that it makes little economic sense for both parents to work, even when they really want to. In over half of states, childcare for infants is more than college tuition. This keeps them stuck at lower income levels and more likely to need various government services. If childcare is affordable, they can get into the workforce. With time, as their income goes up, they will need fewer government services. This will also help expand the workforce, which will become increasingly necessary in the future as the American population ages.

FIRST ARGUMENT AGAINST
The biggest reason that childcare costs have increased so much is actually government policy. They have overregulated childcare centers by strictly limiting how many children any center can have per staff member, even though there is little evidence that this alone results in better childcare. Government subsidies will not solve the underlying problem of expensive childcare. The solution to high childcare costs is not subsidies but less unnecessary government regulation and red tape.

SECOND ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Families are the foundation of American society. It is in everybody’s interest to make raising a family less demanding and more rewarding. Reducing the high costs of childcare for low- and middle-income families will improve their quality of life in many ways. It will reduce the tremendous economic pressures on young parents that have negative, long-term effects on their children. With less stress in the home, young children will thrive better in their crucial early years and throughout their lives.

SECOND ARGUMENT AGAINST
Having the government subsidize childcare is one more way that the government is trying to insert itself into people’s lives. It is trying to encourage women to put their children in childcare and go to work rather than to take care of their children themselves. This is government manipulation. Using money to try to influence whether parents go to work or stay at home with their children is not something the government should be doing.

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers

Majorities in every swing state (68-75%) favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave 
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In the swing states, this proposal is favored by majorities of Republicans in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin (55-67%), while Republicans are statistically divided in Nevada (52%). The proposal is favored by a majority of Democrats (81-86%) in all six states. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%). 

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

FIRST ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
People need to be able to take leave to care for their new child. Without a program for covering at least a part of their salaries, many simply cannot afford it. The bonds that form between newborn children and their parents in the first weeks of life have a critical effect on the child’s healthy development. Failing to provide every child with this care not only hurts the child but leads to greater costs to society later. Such children are more likely to grow up and have various social and health problems. Every child deserves to get this care, no matter their parents’ income.

SECOND ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
Unexpected illnesses happen to everybody, but most workers do not have access to paid medical leave. There needs to be a system in place so that they can recover from a serious illness or take care of a family member, without losing their savings or going into debt. Four in ten American adults earn so little at their jobs that they cannot cover a $400 emergency expense.
Yet it is the high-income workers who are most likely to have access to paid leave, even though they can already afford to take leave. We need a new policy that benefits all workers, of all income levels.

FIRST ARGUMENT AGAINST
Let’s be clear about this plan—it is a tax that would mean lower take home pay for workers. New taxes will be hard on low-income people who are already living on the edge. Employers are taxed too so they are going to have to get the money from somewhere and so they may cut back on pay raises or cut other benefits—which will hurt workers. Furthermore, because the benefits are just two thirds of a person’s income, people with lower incomes will get smaller benefits and the amount will not be enough for them to make ends meet. Many of them will not end up taking the leave, though they still have to pay the tax.

SECOND ARGUMENT AGAINST
America does not need another entitlement program that is likely to be wasteful. It is really better for private employers to offer their own leave programs rather than having a one-size fits all government program. Many workers would prefer to request paid time off directly from their employer, rather than deal with the government, which would require filing a bunch of paperwork, and possibly waiting weeks or more to see if they are eligible for benefits.

ANOTHER ARGUMENT IN FAVOR
We cannot assume businesses will offer paid leave to all workers. If they have not done it by now, they probably won’t. Saying it’s too complicated to have a government program doesn’t make sense–every other developed country has a national paid leave program, and it works great. All of their workers are treated with dignity and respect, while many of ours are forced to choose between caring for their newborn and paying rent. Over 90% of low-wage workers get no paid leave. Putting in place a national program is the only way to ensure that all workers in the U.S. will get paid family and medical leave.

ANOTHER ARGUMENT AGAINST
This system will be too easy to abuse. It will be nearly impossible for the federal government to ensure that all of the millions of workers taking leave are doing so for honest reasons. As a result, workers will take leave more often. This will hurt businesses, slow down the economy, and cost the government.

“There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.”

– Steven Kull, Director, Program for Public Consultation

Families & Children Questionnaire with Toplines, Crosstabs, and Methodology
Go Through the Families & Children
Policymaking Simulation

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 4,624 adults by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy, including approximately 600 in each state of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, and 1,197 nationally. Samples were obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege.

Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. Samples were pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status, home ownership, and partisan affiliation (nationally and in some states) to match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the national sample is +/- 3.2%, and for each of the state samples it is +/- 4.5 to 4.6%.

Raising the Child Tax Credit up to $3,600 and Making it Fully Refundable

Raising the Child Tax Credit to $6,000 for Parents of Newborns

The Federal Government Setting up a 12-Week Paid Family and Medical Leave Program for All Workers

  • FAMILY Act by Sen. Gillibrand (S. 1714) and Rep. DeLauro (H.R. 3481)

The Federal Government Providing $25 Billion to States for Free Universal Preschool

The Federal Government Subsidizing Childcare So Low- and Middle-Income Parents Pay No More than 7% of Their Income

STATE SURVEY REPORTS

In Arizona Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor
Major Federal Actions to Help Families


Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare, Paid Leave


September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) in Arizona, five other swing states and nationally, finds bipartisan majorities support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit
  • providing funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Director of the Program for Public Consultation, Steven Kull, comments, “There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.”
[Full Report]

This survey is the seventh in a series–the Swing Six Issue Surveys–being conducted in the run-up to the November election in six swing states on major policy issues. Unlike traditional polls, respondents in a public consultation survey go through an online “policymaking simulation” in which they are provided briefings and arguments for and against each policy. Content is reviewed by experts on different sides to ensure accuracy and balance. All Americans are invited to go through the same policymaking simulation as the survey sample.

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit
The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 - the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. A bipartisan majority in Arizona favors reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (75%), including majorities of Republicans (69%) and Democrats (83%). Across all swing states, bipartisan majorities are in favor (69-77%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats.

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues, and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

In addition, a bipartisan majority in Arizona (65%) supports providing a $6,000 tax credit per child to parents of children under age one, including 66% of Republicans and 68% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support is 57% to 71%. Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%). [BAR GRAPH]

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool
A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4-year-olds, is favored by 78% in Arizona, including majorities of Republicans (66%) and Democrats (93%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 76% to 83%. Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%). [BAR GRAPH]

Subsidizing Childcare for Low and Middle-Income Families
A bipartisan majority of 76% in Arizona favor the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes 65% of Republicans and 91% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 74% to 80%. Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%). [BAR GRAPH]

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers
A bipartisan majority of 74% in Arizona favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In Arizona, this proposal is favored by 62% of Republicans and 84% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 68% to 75%. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%).

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 617 adults in Arizona by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. Sample was obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege. Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. The sample was pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status and home ownership to match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the Arizona sample is 4.5%.

In Georgia Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor
Major Federal Actions to Help Families

Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare, Paid Leave

September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) in Georgia, five other swing states and nationally, finds bipartisan majorities support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit
  • providing funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Director of the Program for Public Consultation, Steven Kull, comments, “There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.” [Full Report]

This survey is the seventh in a series – the Swing Six Issue Surveys – being conducted in the run-up to the November election in six swing states on major policy issues. Unlike traditional polls, respondents in a public consultation survey go through an online “policymaking simulation” in which they are provided briefings and arguments for and against each policy. Content is reviewed by experts on different sides to ensure accuracy and balance. All Americans are invited to go through the same policymaking simulation as the survey sample.

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit
The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 - the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. A bipartisan majority in Georgia favors reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (77%), including majorities of Republicans (71%) and Democrats (85%). Across all swing states, bipartisan majorities are in favor (69-77%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats.

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues, and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

In addition, a bipartisan majority of 71% in Georgia supports providing a $6,000 tax credit per child to parents of children under age one, including 63% of Republicans and 79% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support is 57% to 71%. Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%). [BAR GRAPH]

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool
A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4 year-olds, is favored by 83% in Georgia, including majorities of Republicans (73%) and Democrats (93%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 76% to 83%. Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%). [BAR GRAPH]

Subsidizing Childcare for Low and Middle-Income Families
A bipartisan majority of 80% in Georgia favor the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes 72% of Republicans and 92% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 74% to 80%. Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%). [BAR GRAPH]

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers
A bipartisan majority of 73% in Georgia favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In Georgia, this proposal is favored by 65% of Republicans and 81% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 68% to 75%. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%).

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 605 adults in Georgia by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. Sample was obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege. Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. The sample was pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status, home ownership, and partisan affiliation to roughly match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the Georgia sample is 4.5%.

In Michigan Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor Major Federal Actions to Help Families

Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare, Paid Leave


September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) in Michigan, five other swing states and nationally, finds bipartisan majorities support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit
  • providing funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Director of the Program for Public Consultation, Steven Kull, comments, “There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.” [Full Report]

This survey is the seventh in a series – the Swing Six Issue Surveys – being conducted in the run-up to the November election in six swing states on major policy issues. Unlike traditional polls, respondents in a public consultation survey go through an online “policymaking simulation” in which they are provided briefings and arguments for and against each policy. Content is reviewed by experts on different sides to ensure accuracy and balance. All Americans are invited to go through the same policymaking simulation as the survey sample.

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit
The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 - the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. A bipartisan majority in Michigan favors reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (74%), including majorities of Republicans (69%) and Democrats (83%). Across all swing states, bipartisan majorities are in favor (69-77%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats.

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues, and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

In addition, a bipartisan majority of 66% in Michigan supports providing a $6,000 tax credit per child to parents of children under age one, including 60% of Republicans and 74% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support is 57% to 71%. Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%). [BAR GRAPH]

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool
A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4-year-olds, is favored by 83% in Michigan, including majorities of Republicans (78%) and Democrats (92%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 76% to 83%. Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%). [BAR GRAPH]

Subsidizing Childcare for Low and Middle-Income Families
A bipartisan majority of 79% in Michigan favor the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes 70% of Republicans and 93% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 74% to 80%. Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%). [BAR GRAPH]

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers
A [bipartisan] majority of 75% in Michigan favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In Michigan, this proposal is favored by 67% of Republicans and 86% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 68% to 75%. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%).

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 618 adults in Michigan by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. Sample was obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege. Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. The sample was pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status, and home ownership to match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the Michigan sample is 4.5%.

In Nevada Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor
Major Federal Actions to Help Families

Bipartisan Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare

September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) in Nevada, five other swing states and nationally, finds bipartisan majorities support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit
  • providing funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Director of the Program for Public Consultation, Steven Kull, comments, “There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.” [Full Report]

This survey is the seventh in a series – the Swing Six Issue Surveys – being conducted in the run-up to the November election in six swing states on major policy issues. Unlike traditional polls, respondents in a public consultation survey go through an online “policymaking simulation” in which they are provided briefings and arguments for and against each policy. Content is reviewed by experts on different sides to ensure accuracy and balance. All Americans are invited to go through the same policymaking simulation as the survey sample.

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit
The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 - the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. A bipartisan majority in Nevada favors reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (73%), including majorities of Republicans (64%) and Democrats (82%). Across all swing states, bipartisan majorities are in favor (69-77%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats.

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues, and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

In addition, a majority of 63% in Nevada supports providing a $6,000 tax credit per child to parents of children under age one, including 73% of Democrats. Republicans in Nevada are statistically divided, with 53% in favor to 47% opposed. Across all swing states, support is 57% to 71%. Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%). [BAR GRAPH]

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool
A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4-year-olds, is favored by 80% in Nevada, including majorities of Republicans (67%) and Democrats (94%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 76% to 83%. Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%). [BAR GRAPH]

Subsidizing Childcare for Low and Middle-Income Families
A bipartisan majority of 77% in Nevada favor the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes 68% of Republicans and 85% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 74% to 80%. Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%). [BAR GRAPH]

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers
A majority of 69% in Nevada favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In Nevada, this proposal is favored by 82% of Democrats, with Republicans statistically divided (52%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 68% to 75%. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%).

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 601 adults in Nevada by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. Sample was obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege. Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. The sample was pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status, home ownership, and partisan affiliation to match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the Nevada sample is 4.5%.

In Pennsylvania Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor Major Federal Actions to Help Families


Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare, Paid Leave


September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) in Pennsylvania, five other swing states and nationally, finds bipartisan majorities support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit
  • providing funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Director of the Program for Public Consultation, Steven Kull, comments, “There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.” [Full Report]

This survey is the seventh in a series – the Swing Six Issue Surveys – being conducted in the run-up to the November election in six swing states on major policy issues. Unlike traditional polls, respondents in a public consultation survey go through an online “policymaking simulation” in which they are provided briefings and arguments for and against each policy. Content is reviewed by experts on different sides to ensure accuracy and balance. All Americans are invited to go through the same policymaking simulation as the survey sample.

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit
The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 - the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. A bipartisan majority in Pennsylvania favors reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (71%), including majorities of Republicans (62%) and Democrats (81%). Across all swing states, bipartisan majorities are in favor (69-77%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats.

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

In addition, a majority of 58% in Pennsylvania supports providing a $6,000 tax credit per child to parents of children under age one, including 69% % of Democrats. Republicans in Pennsylvania are statistically divided, with 47% in favor and 53% opposed. Across all swing states, support is 57% to 71%. Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%).
[BAR GRAPH]

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool
A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4 year-olds, is favored by 76% in Pennsylvania, including majorities of Republicans (63%) and Democrats (90%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 76% to 83%. Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%). [BAR GRAPH]

Subsidizing Childcare for Low- and Middle-Income Families
A bipartisan majority of 76% in Pennsylvania favor the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes 63% of Republicans and 88% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 74% to 80%. Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%). [BAR GRAPH]

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers
A bipartisan majority of 68% in Pennsylvania favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In Pennsylvania, this proposal is favored by 81% of Democrats and a modest majority of Republicans (55%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 68% to 75%. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%).

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 612 adults in Pennsylvania by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. Sample was obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege. Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. The sample was pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status, and home ownership to match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the Pennsylvania sample is 4.5%.

In Wisconsin Majorities of Democrats and Republicans Favor Major Federal Actions to Help Families

Support for Higher Child Tax Credit, Universal Preschool, Subsidized Childcare, Paid Leave

September 18, 2024 – As many costs for families, especially those with children, continue to rise faster than wages, a new public consultation survey by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) in Wisconsin, five other swing states and nationally, finds bipartisan majorities support the Federal government:

  • reinstating the higher pandemic-era Child Tax Credit
  • providing funding for free universal preschool
  • subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families
  • creating a national 12-week paid family and medical leave program for all workers

Director of the Program for Public Consultation, Steven Kull, comments, “There is strong bipartisan support for the Federal government taking a more active role in strengthening the support system for families, especially those with children.” [Full Report]

This survey is the seventh in a series – the Swing Six Issue Surveys – being conducted in the run-up to the November election in six swing states on major policy issues. Unlike traditional polls, respondents in a public consultation survey go through an online “policymaking simulation” in which they are provided briefings and arguments for and against each policy. Content is reviewed by experts on different sides to ensure accuracy and balance. All Americans are invited to go through the same policymaking simulation as the survey sample.

Reinstating Higher Child Tax Credit
The annual tax credit provided to parents with children under the age of 18 - the Child Tax Credit – was temporarily increased by Congress during the Covid pandemic, from a maximum credit of $2,000 per child to a maximum of $3,600 per child. The higher tax credit was also made fully refundable, so parents who did not pay income taxes still got the full benefit. Those changes expired in 2022. A bipartisan majority in Wisconsin favors reinstating this pandemic-era Child Tax Credit (69%), including majorities of Republicans (60%) and Democrats (80%). Across all swing states, bipartisan majorities are in favor (69-77%). Nationally, 74% are in favor, including 64% of Republicans and 83% of Democrats.

Respondents were informed in advance that the pandemic-era tax credit both reduced child poverty by about a third and significantly reduced federal revenues, and would likely have the same effects if reinstated.

In addition, a majority of 57% in Wisconsin supports providing a $6,000 tax credit per child to parents of children under age one, including 65% of Democrats. Republicans in Wisconsin are statistically divided, with 51% in favor and 49% opposed. Across all swing states, support is 57% to 71%. Nationally, 65% are in favor, including a modest majority of Republicans (55%), and a large majority of Democrats (75%). [BAR GRAPH]

Federal Funding to Support Free Universal Preschool
A proposal for the Federal government to provide $25 billion to help states or local governments that want to set up or expand free preschool programs, available to all 3-4 year-olds, is favored by 76% in Wisconsin, including majorities of Republicans (63%) and Democrats (91%). Across all swing states, support ranges from 76% to 83%. Nationally, a bipartisan majority of 82% is in favor (Republicans 74%, Democrats 92%). [BAR GRAPH]

Subsidizing Childcare for Low and Middle-Income Families
A bipartisan majority of 74% in Wisconsin favor the Federal government providing funds to states that want it, to subsidize childcare programs for young children so they are free for low-income parents, and middle-income parents pay no more than 7% of their income. This includes 65% of Republicans and 87% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 74% to 80%. Nationally, 76% are in favor (Republicans 66%, Democrats 88%). [BAR GRAPH]

Paid Family and Medical Leave for All Workers
A bipartisan majority of 72% in Wisconsin favor creating a national paid family and medical leave program that would:

  • require employers to allow all workers to take up to 12 weeks of leave
  • provide workers on leave with two-thirds of their wages (up to $4,000 a month), with funds from a new 0.2% payroll tax on both employees and employers

In Wisconsin, this proposal is favored by 63% of Republicans and 84% of Democrats. Across all swing states, support ranges from 68% to 75%. Nationally, 72% are in favor, including majorities of Republicans (61%) and Democrats (85%).

In advance, respondents were informed that current Federal law requires most employers to allow most workers to take up to 12 weeks of family or medical leave, but this law does not apply to workers who are in small companies, are new to their job, or work part-time. In addition, current law does not mandate that workers receive any pay while on leave. They were informed that, while not required, some employers provide paid family and medical leave to their workers. But currently, less than half of workers have access to such paid leave.

About the Survey
The survey was fielded Aug 17-29, 2024 with 587 adults in Wisconsin by the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. Sample was obtained from multiple online opt-in panels, including Cint, Dynata and Prodege. Sample collection and quality control was managed by QuantifyAI under the direction of the Program for Public Consultation. The sample was pre-stratified and weighted by age, race, gender, education, income, metro/non-metro, marital status, and home ownership to match the general adult population. The survey was offered in both English and Spanish. The confidence interval for the Wisconsin sample is 4.6%.