Press Releases

Today, Representative John James (MI-10) introduced the Reignite Hope Act to the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill amends the current IRS tax code to establish a credit for employees of critical industries and makes permanent certain expiring provisions relating to the child tax credit.

The bill outlines four categories of qualifying “critical employees,” including healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, first responders, and caretakers. Individuals must also work full-time for at least 75% of the taxable year in a job located in an opportunity zone. The bill would also offer as much as $4,500 in tax credits per child.

Rep. James issued the following statement regarding this legislation:

“There is a hopelessness epidemic in America. At a time when Americans feel like everything is broken and nothing is working for them, we must reignite hope in our country for those who bring so much hope to our communities: nurses and careworkers, public safety officials, and parents. These local heroes are the foundation of our society, and the Reignite Hope Act will address the basic needs for these individuals by giving them the tools and resources to improve their lives and conditions. These practical steps will offer a lifeline to families, improve public safety, help solve our labor shortage, and address the hopelessness epidemic in this country,” said James.

The bill is co-sponsored by Reps. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR) and Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ).

Rep. Chavez-DeRemer issued the following statement in support of this legislation:

“I was proud to champion Opportunity Zones when I served as mayor, and the Reignite Hope Act will encourage the recruitment of nurses, public safety officers, and care givers needed to help these communities thrive. It will also provide much-needed financial stability for families. I appreciate Congressman James’ leadership and look forward to working with him on this critical issue,”  Chavez-DeRemer said.

Rep. Ciscomani also issued a statement in support of this bill after its introduction:

“When we invest in and provide for our communities in opportunity zones, we strengthen the entire country. The Reignite Hope Act incentivizes growth in these often-underserved communities, bolstering opportunities for everyone from families and care givers to first responders, and I am proud to join Congressman James on this effort,” said Ciscomani.

Read the bill’s full text here.