Catholic Lobby Applauds Build Back Better Framework

For Immediate Release: October 28, 2021

Contact: Audrey Carroll | acarroll@networklobby.org | 202-601-7875

Catholic Lobby Affirms Build Back Better Framework

Mary J. Novak: “Speaker Pelosi, Senator Schumer, and President Biden prioritized vulnerable communities in this package, which will transform the lives of millions.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Biden announced the framework for the Build Back Better Act. NETWORK Lobby affirms this framework as a transformational investment in our country’s future. The Build Back Better framework includes key provisions such as permanent refundability of the expanded Child Tax Credit, closing the Medicaid coverage gap in the 12 non-expansion states, a $150 billion investment in affordable housing and vouchers, $100 billion for immigration system reforms, and more. This bill will be paid for by ensuring the ultra-wealthy and tax-dodging corporations pay their fair share to invest in communities, families, and the future to advance racial and economic inequality.

NETWORK is disappointed to see the exclusion of a federal paid leave program in the Build Back Better framework, but will continue the work to ensure everyone can take the time they need to bond with their children and care for themselves and their families in times of need. We look forward to passage of the bill to improve the lives of everyone in the United States.

Mary J. Novak, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, said:

“Build Back Better is a transformative framework that includes key provisions, like a historic investment in affordable housing, health care for all, and permanent refundability of the Child Tax Credit, which will cut childhood poverty in half. Importantly, this bill is paid for by requiring ultra-wealthy billionaires and tax-evading corporations to pay their fair share of taxes. This is an important first step to eliminate the racial wealth and income gap in the U.S.

While the framework falls short in some areas, such as not providing families with 12 weeks of paid leave, and not including a clear pathway to citizenship, it will significantly ensure our country recovers from the pandemic and work to dismantle racism in our systems and structures.

Speaker Pelosi, Senator Schumer, and President Biden prioritized vulnerable communities in this package, which will transform the lives of millions. We look forward to passage of the bill to improve the lives of everyone in the United States and build our economy anew.”

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NETWORK – advocates for justice inspired by Catholic sisters – educates, organizes, and lobbies for economic and social transformation. They have a nearly 50-year track record of lobbying for critical federal programs that support those at the margins and prioritize the common good. www.networklobby.org