Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Baby Bonuses Fail to Boost Birth Rates, Experts Warn

5/11/2025

50 5

Summary

Story summary

Economist Leonard Lopoo claims baby bonuses fail to raise birth rates, merely altering birth timing.
The U.S. fertility rate has declined to 1.6, leading Congress to explore expanding the Child Tax Credit.
Critics argue cash incentives are insufficient, citing the high costs of raising children.
Experts advocate for enhanced child care access and support for reproductive technologies as better solutions.

1 of 1

Story summary

Economist Leonard Lopoo claims baby bonuses fail to raise birth rates, merely altering birth timing.
The U.S. fertility rate has declined to 1.6, leading Congress to explore expanding the Child Tax Credit.
Critics argue cash incentives are insufficient, citing the high costs of raising children.
Experts advocate for enhanced child care access and support for reproductive technologies as better solutions.