State policymakers are considering cutting child care funding — a mistake that could harm our children, economy and future. I urge them to maintain this critical support and ask the public to advocate against these cuts.

Child care facilities suffered financially during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to closures and staffing shortages. State funding helped stabilize the sector, keeping workers employed and supporting families. However, the need for financial aid remains, yet funding reductions are now being proposed.

Reliable child care is essential for a strong economy. When parents have access to safe, affordable child care, they can remain in the workforce, boosting economic stability. State-funded programs also ensure quality care, preventing families from resorting to inadequate or unsafe options. The math is simple: Funded child care equals fairly paid workers, which equals reliable care, employed parents and a thriving economy.

Beyond economic benefits, investing in early childhood education fosters school readiness and long-term success — particularly for low-income families. Quality child care reduces disparities, creating opportunities for upward mobility.

Child care is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Gov. Mills and state policymakers must protect and expand funding, not cut it. Investing in child care is investing in our future.

Emily Lebel
Greene