New UW study shows anti-poverty policies can reduce reports of child neglect

Providing economic relief to struggling families can lead to fewer cases of child neglect, according to new research by the University of Washington. A 10% increase in a common benefit for low- to moderate-income working families, the Earned Income Tax Credit, led to a 9% decrease in the annual number of reports of child neglect made to child welfare agencies over a 14-year study period. That’s a significant impact, researchers say, and can inform future social policies. Read more about the findings here.