Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/state-legislature-roundup-some-wins-but-more-support-for-child-care-is-needed/5026828/
States and local communities play a significant role in shaping the policies that determine child care access for families and the quality of available care. This article explores legislation that state and local governments enacted in 2022 to support child care and early learning. These actions are especially important, as the last available federal relief funding, which has allowed states to implement temporary child care policies, is set to run out by September 2024.
Current Funding is Not Enough to Support States’ Child Care Systems
States use a myriad of funding streams to support their child care systems. At its bedrock, states receive federal funding under the Child Care and Development Block Grant to help low-income families afford and access care, as well as improve the overall quality and supply of programs. CCDGB requires states to also provide funds to support their child care and early learning programs. In addition, states can tap into other federal funds to support child care, like Head Start/Early Head Start, the Preschool Development Grant, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
Unfortunately, past federal and state investments have not been enough to support the system, and have created a precarious situation for child care—one that relies heavily ...