Creating Opportunities for Nebraska's Next Generation

For many Nebraskans, parenthood brings both immense joy and real challenges every day. As a father of two, I can say without hesitation that there is no greater calling in life than being a parent. While fatherhood has been one of the greatest blessings in my life, it is unrealistic to say it is not challenging. 

Perhaps no one understands this reality better than new parents. Between sleepless nights, frequent doctor visits, and the endless list of baby supplies, families are also forced to think ahead. In turn, tough questions quickly arise: How will they pay for childcare? What is their plan for college? Can they prepare for the future while managing today’s expenses? 

Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts to help address those challenges and give families new tools to turn their concerns into opportunity. 

For new parents, a real game-changer is the Trump Investment Account. Now every newborn American has the opportunity to receive a $1,000 federal contribution in a tax-advantaged account created in their name, with parents serving as custodians until age 18. Families also have the ability to contribute up to $5,000 each year, creating a savings foundation with decades to grow. 
 
Even without additional contributions, the administration projects that a $1,000 investment will grow significantly over time, reaching approximately $6,000 by age 18, $15,000 by age 27, and more than $240,000 by age 55. That early start can make a meaningful difference when it comes to college, homeownership, or retirement. 
 
But the benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts do not stop there. This tax season, nearly $100 billion in additional tax refunds are projected, with the average family of four receiving about $4,000, almost $1,000 more compared to last year.
 
By permanently doubling the standard deduction—the filing method used by 90 percent of taxpayers—we not only simplified tax filing, but we ensured that more money stays where it belongs: in family budgets. We also permanently expanded the child tax credit to $2,200 per child, indexed to inflation, to make parenting more affordable.  
 
Together, these changes prevented a $1,700 tax increase for the average working family and helped keep nearly $11,000 a year in take-home pay in their pockets. Those bigger paychecks make a real difference. Families can use those dollars for immediate needs like groceries, childcare, and unexpected expenses, or put them toward their long-term financial goals like paying off debt or starting a college fund. 
 
The Working Families Tax Cuts are about more than a single tax season. Bigger paychecks, larger refunds, and Trump Investment Accounts help Nebraska families plan with confidence—not just for the next year, but for the next generation. Every child born in Nebraska deserves a strong start in life, and I am proud to support policies that give families the tools to make that possible.