New parents in Baltimore may receive a $1,000 “baby bonus” if a proposal aiming to reduce childhood poverty from birth with a one-time cash payment is approved by voters.
A group of Baltimore teachers is leading the effort. Organizers have gathered 10,000 signatures to bring the question to voters as a ballot initiative in November. Their campaign involved extensive canvassing efforts and a cute logo: a flying cartoon stork with a bag of money in its beak.
The proposal is inspired by a program in Flint, Michigan, where women get $1,500 during mid-pregnancy and $500 per month for the first year after childbirth. The Flint program is the first of its kind in the U.S.
Other countries have tried larger cash payments to encourage more births, but the Baltimore proposal focuses on addressing child poverty. Italy provides baby bonus checks to increase its population.
Organizers believe more systemic change is required at a national level to help families escape poverty, but providing new parents with a small financial boost could be a crucial first step.
Nate Golden, a high school math teacher and co-founder of the Maryland Child Alliance, emphasized the long-term impact such a program could have on children.
If approved, all new parents in Baltimore will receive a minimum $1,000 one-time payment.
Advocates argue that the universal approach ensures no one is left behind, even if some money goes to affluent families. Creating a qualification system could add costs and delay the program.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about childhood poverty and could lead to more comprehensive changes in the future.
While $1,000 may not transform lives, it could help cover expenses like diapers, formula, and cribs for new parents living on the margins of society.
Nadya Dutchin, executive director of ShareBaby, highlighted the importance of addressing material insecurities that contribute to parental stress.
She noted that the demand for supplies has risen significantly due to inflation and stagnant wages.
Governor Wes Moore of Maryland has actively campaigned to support the state’s youngest and most vulnerable residents.