The Republicans’ latest tax bill has stirred controversy as it threatens to exclude millions of families from a tax credit intended to alleviate financial burdens, while simultaneously promoting policies to encourage more childbirth. The bill proposes to increase the child tax credit from $2,000 to $2,500 per child; however, an estimated 17 million children would be ineligible to receive the full credit due to their parents’ income levels. Another provision demands that a US citizen child’s parent or guardian must have a social security number to claim the credit, potentially leaving out undocumented immigrants and others without work authorization.

The debate over the child tax credit comes amidst a growing interest in pronatalism, a contentious ideology advocating for increased childbirth rates. Republicans have entertained ideas such as a $5,000 “baby bonus” and incentivizing parents to stay at home, albeit conflicting with their stance on reducing federal spending. The bill also reflects other Republican priorities, including tax breaks for businesses and tax hikes on university endowments.

While some of these changes, like the child tax credit increase, are set to expire in 2029, reverting back to $2,000 per child, the bill’s impact on struggling families and the broader implications of promoting childbirth remain subjects of concern and debate. This bill contrasts with previous relief measures, like the American Rescue Plan, which boosted the child tax credit temporarily and made it refundable for families of all income levels.