As the cost of living continues to climb, more families are finding it tough to keep up with expenses. In Nevada, where childcare is one of the priciest in the country, many residents are feeling the pinch.
A recent survey, conducted between August 17 and 29, shows strong support for expanding the Child Tax Credit and other policies that ease financial strain on working families.
The Child Tax Credit has been a valuable tool in lowering child poverty across the U.S., but its effectiveness dropped when the temporary expansions during the pandemic ended in 2022. Back then, the credit increased to $3,600 for kids under six and $3,000 for those aged six to seventeen.
Child Tax Credit
According to the survey, 73% of Nevadans support returning to those higher credit amounts and making the credit fully refundable.
During the pandemic, this tax credit reduced child poverty by a third. In Nevada, many want it back, with bipartisan backing: 82% of Democrats and 64% of Republicans favor increasing the credit to $3,600 per child.
For families, this credit is more than just extra money. It helps them cover essential expenses like food, clothing, and education, offering financial stability and peace of mind.
Childcare Costs
The survey also reveals that Nevada has some of the highest childcare costs in the country.
On average, Nevada families spend about 32% of their income on childcare, the highest percentage nationwide. For many families, this cost makes it nearly impossible to balance work and childcare.
One solution gaining popularity is subsidizing childcare for low- and middle-income families. About 77% of survey respondents believe families shouldn’t spend more than 7% of their income on childcare.
This idea has broad bipartisan support, with 68% of Republicans and 85% of Democrats in favor.
| Childcare Spending in Nevada | Percentage of Income |
|---|---|
| National Average | 23% |
| Nevada Average | 32% |
Preschool Investment
Another key finding from the survey is strong support for funding universal preschool education. Eight out of ten Nevadans want more investment in preschool programs, aiming to provide equal access to early education.
Currently, Nevada has one of the lowest enrollment rates in state-funded preschool programs, with just 7% of four-year-olds enrolled—far lower than other states.
The benefits of preschool education are clear: it helps kids develop social-emotional skills, improves their health, and sets them up for future academic success.
Support for increasing preschool funding is also bipartisan, with 94% of Democrats and 67% of Republicans agreeing on its importance for children’s development.
Paid Family Leave
Paid family and medical leave is another policy receiving substantial support in Nevada. The state currently doesn’t have a law requiring paid family leave, leaving many parents with tough choices when balancing work and caring for a loved one.
But according to the survey, 70% of Nevadans support a federal paid family and medical leave program, which would allow workers to earn two-thirds of their wages for up to 12 weeks of leave.
This policy is especially popular among Democrats, with 82% in favor, though Republicans show less support, with only 52% backing the idea.
Still, the pandemic has made the need for paid family leave more apparent, pushing the topic into public debate.
Widespread Support
Nevada’s support for expanding the Child Tax Credit, subsidizing childcare, and investing in preschool shows how families are feeling the weight of rising living costs.
With bipartisan backing across these policies, the state is pushing for changes that could ease the financial burdens on families and ensure a better future for their children.
These policy measures not only reflect economic necessity but also signal a broader understanding of how crucial early childhood care and education are for long-term success.
FAQs
How much childcare income do Nevada families spend?
Nevada families spend about 32% of their income on childcare.
How much did the Child Tax Credit increase during the pandemic?
It rose to $3,600 for kids under six and $3,000 for kids aged 6-17.
What percentage of Nevadans support expanding the Child Tax Credit?
About 73% support reinstating higher amounts.
How many four-year-olds are enrolled in Nevada state preschool programs?
Only 7% of four-year-olds are enrolled.
Is there bipartisan support for paid family leave in Nevada?
Yes, 70% of Nevadans support it, including many Democrats and Republicans.
