The COVID-19 pandemic has put the United States economy to the test. BPC's Bill Hoagland warns of a long stretch of deficits as the nation recovers while Shai Akabas discusses the importance of claiming Social Security benefits at the optimal age. Linda Smith also points out the challenges faced by many parents as they balance caring for their children and working full-time.

The unemployment insurance system provides crucial support to jobless Americans, particularly during difficult and uncertain times like these, but it is only effective if unemployed workers can access benefits in a timely manner. Congress should provide additional resources and realign incentives for states to improve benefit delivery.

Addressing issues around child care affordability are critical to meet the needs of families, but also must take into account that child care providers simply cannot lower the price of care. A strong foundation of public and private funding is necessary to lift up families and providers. In order to fix a broken system, we must repair from what is already there, without overlooking child care provider and family needs.

With so much confusion around what to eat and skyrocketing rates of obesity and diet-related diseases like type 2 diabetes, trusted evidence-based guidelines, such as the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, are pivotal standards for improving our nation’s health. As the federal government writes the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, they should take into consideration the evidence-based conclusions and issue common-sense guidelines for improved health.