Following the House passing the “Big Beautiful Bill,” youth advocacy organization condemns bill as a disservice to children and families across the nation.
Media Contact: John Henry, jhenry@childrensdefense.org, Media Relations Manager, 708-646-7679
WASHINGTON, DC—On Thursday, the United States House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation package that includes massive tax cuts for the rich and wealthy.
“Children’s Defense Fund believes all young people deserve to grow up with dignity, hope, and joy. That is why, for more than 50 years, we have committed to a vision of children and families across this nation thriving. And that is why, today, we are deeply disturbed and disappointed by the passage of H.R. 1.
“The bill has been called ‘big’ and ‘beautiful,’ but it is big only in its audacious harms to everyday people. It is bad and brutal in its gutting of essential programs children and families rely on for their day-to-day needs.
“A budget is a statement of our values—a moral document that reveals who we choose to protect and who we leave behind. This package values the rich, wealthy, and corporations. And it devalues children and youth by making historic cuts to Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It devalues the families of 17 million children by deeming them ‘ineligible’ and ‘undeserving’ of the vital Child Tax Credit (CTC).
“In this moment, we are reminded that poverty is a policy choice. That every child who goes without basic health care, a filling and nutritious meal, and a safe place to sleep bears the burden of choices made on Capitol Hill. We urge you to remember that the strength of a nation is measured by how it treats its children and youth. And when future generations ask what we did to protect them, we must be able to say we acted with courage—not convenience or political expediency.
“Our work toward a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive remains resolute. But we must begin by acknowledging the harm and charting a better path forward.”