Roybal-Allard Cites Key Benefits for Latino Families in President's State of the Union Speech

Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, today applauded President Clinton's "State of the Union" address and cited several key programs that will benefit America's Latino community.

"Latino families work hard to care for their children and their elderly parents, but the financial burden can be very difficult," said Roybal-Allard. "The President's agenda is attuned to these concerns. His plan includes a package of tax breaks for working parents and an expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit. It will safeguard Social Security and Medicare - our promise to America's elderly. Plus, the President's plan will make health care and college tuition more affordable. These initiatives will help families support one another and build a better future together."

"President Clinton's $21 billion plan to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit will be a tremendous help to Latino families," said Roybal-Allard. "Currently, one of every three families that receive the EITC are Latino, so these changes will have a dramatic impact on our community."

The President's plan would provide an additional tax break of $500 to families with three or more children. Because Latino families tend to be larger, the EITC expansion will be of particular help to Latinos.

"Despite the current economic boom, many Americans still struggle to make ends meet and worry that health care is unaffordable," said Roybal-Allard. "Roughly one-third of Latinos are not covered by health insurance - a situation that jeopardizes the economic stability of many families. President Clinton's plan will dramatically improve the affordability and accessibility of health care for millions of Americans."

"Under President Clinton's leadership there has been an increased focus on preparing Latino students to complete high school and go directly to college," said Roybal-Allard. "With a new plan to invest $30 billion in making college more affordable, President Clinton is again leading the way in opening the doors of opportunity to all of our young people."

"The President's agenda for the year 2000 will strengthen our communities by providing greater economic opportunity and safeguarding the well-being of our people," said Roybal-Allard.

Congresswoman Roybal-Allard said that she is committed to continue working with President Clinton and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to enact legislation that will benefit Latino families and improve the quality of life for all Americans.

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Congresswoman Roybal-Allard
Washington, D.C., Office: 2330 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515. Phone: (202) 225-1766. Fax: (202) 226-0350.
District Office: 255 E. Temple St., Ste. 1860, Los Angeles, CA 90012-3334. Phone: (213) 628-9230. Fax: (213) 628-8578.