Testimony Before the Income Tax Subcommittee I am Marguerite Turnbull representing the League of Women Voters of Ohio. The League of Women Voters is an organization which promotes the informed and active participation of citizens in government and encourages action on governmental issues in the public interest. The League is a grassroots organization and our positions are based on study and member consensus. The League supports programs and policies to prevent or reduce poverty and to promote self-sufficiency for individuals and families. We are in favor of HB 10 which would grant a refundable earned income tax credit equal to 15% of the federal earned income tax credit. In fact, 20% would be preferable. The unemployment rate in Ohio is at an all-time low, and through Ohio Works First the welfare rolls have decreased dramatically. But, working at $5 or $6 per hour does not get a family's earnings up to the poverty level, which is $13,650 for a family of three. Welfare-leavers and other workers are struggling to meet self-sufficiency, and often their basic human needs are not being met. Half of all Ohio families with children living below the poverty level have a working adult. People who work full-time should be able to reach at least a minimum level of subsistence. The League, along with many other groups, believes that a state earned income tax credit, combined with the federal credit, would enable hard working families to pay their bills, remain independent and not be on public assistance. A state credit would effectively target state dollars to poor families. It creates an incentive to work. And, it is easy to administer - no new bureaucracy is needed. Thank you. |
