The Episcopal Church is actively opposing Republican efforts to extend 2017 tax cuts and reduce federal safety net programs. Church leaders say these measures would harm low-income families and contradict Christian values of social justice. Through its Office of Government Relations, the church has issued alerts urging members to advocate for vulnerable Americans.
Tax Cuts Criticized for Widening Inequality
The Republican plan to extend tax cuts from the Trump era is a central component of the party’s fiscal agenda. The Episcopal Church warns that these cuts would disproportionately benefit the wealthy and trigger deep reductions in social programs. The church advocates instead for expanding tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit, which support working families. Church officials call the proposed tax policy “extreme” and argue it contradicts their mission to reduce economic inequality.
Church Rallies Support for SNAP Benefits
One of the church’s strongest objections targets proposed changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). A bill passed by House Republicans in May includes stricter work requirements and shifts financial responsibility to states. This could cut SNAP support by 30%, affecting millions. The Episcopal Church says this threatens the dignity and well-being of vulnerable populations. Church alerts urge Episcopalians to speak out against what they view as harmful policy.
Medicaid Cuts Raise Deep Moral Concerns
The proposed budget would also cut Medicaid spending by up to $880 million over the next decade. Critics, including the Episcopal Church, argue this would eliminate coverage for more than 7 million people. The church stresses that most Medicaid recipients are women and people of color. It highlights Medicaid’s role in covering children, the poor, and individuals with mental health conditions. The church frames health care as a human right and views these cuts as a moral failing.
Divided Reactions Across Political and Religious Lines
Supporters of the Republican plan argue the cuts are fiscally necessary and promote self-sufficiency. Critics, including Episcopal leaders, counter that the proposals neglect moral obligations to protect the poor. The tension highlights a broader national debate on the government’s role in addressing poverty and inequality.
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Episcopal Church raises alarm at GOP fiscal plan’s potential to harm low-income Americans
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