Making Childcare More Affordable and Accessible

Families in our community are being pushed to the limit by the rising cost of childcare. Affordable childcare shouldn’t be out of reach in one of the wealthiest states in the nation. Childcare is one of the biggest expenses facing working families today.

Fortunately, there are clear, practical steps we can take at the state level to lower costs, expand access, and strengthen the system for both families and providers.

• Expand Child Care Assistance
  Increase income qualifications so more middle- and lower-income families can afford care.
• Invest in Childcare Infrastructure
  Identify state budget funding that can be made available for grants and low-interest loans that help new and existing providers.
• Grow Childcare Supply
  Add more childcare slots to help secure availability and reduce costs.
• Support the Workforce
  Provide wage increases and professional development to address staffing shortages.
• Reform Regulations
  Modernize licensing processes and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens while maintaining safety and quality.
• Provide Tax Relief
  Expand childcare tax credits and encourage businesses to help support childcare for their employees.
• Study and Plan for Long-Term Solutions
  Use committees and interim studies to gather data, hear from families and providers, and develop effective future policies.

I will fight to expand childcare assistance, invest in more providers so families have real options, and support childcare workers with better pay so we can keep centers open and more affordable. I’ll push for smart policies and tax relief that can help working families, while encouraging businesses to be part of the solution. It’s essential for our families, our workforce, and our future to take care of our children.