WHEREAS,  in order to promote the federal and Maine state earned income tax credit, which enhances family household budgets, we recognize January 31, 2020 as EITC Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS,  4 of 5 people eligible for the credit claim it, which demonstrates the importance of raising awareness of this credit and urging individuals to find out if they qualify for it; and

WHEREAS,  throughout the State, IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers who are members of CA$H Maine, a collaboration of 10 statewide coalitions including 50 nonprofit and for-profit partners, and AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provide free federal and state tax preparation; and

WHEREAS,  since 2003, CA$H Maine has also educated hard-working families and individuals about programs in the community that can increase their income, reduce debt and build savings; and

WHEREAS,  in 2019, these volunteers helped Maine residents save more than $3,800,000 in tax filing fees and claim nearly $4,200,000 in earned income tax credits, returning over $20,600,000 to Maine residents in federal income tax refunds; now, therefore, be it