BREAKING: Hundreds of parents, child care providers, and advocates are gathering in Albany today, demanding immediate action for universal child care in New York. The rally, taking place at the state capitol, aims to urge lawmakers to enact comprehensive child care legislation this year, a goal that advocates have tirelessly pursued for years.
Participants emphasize that Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent budget proposal represents a pivotal moment in their long fight for child care access. “Now we’ll have the ability to have our children go out and get what they need, parents can work hours if needed, and the support is unanimous with everything we’ve been doing for all these years,” stated Cheryl Wearen from the Children’s Agenda in Rochester.
As families gather in Albany, Governor Hochul remains cautious about the timeline for implementing universal child care across the state. In an interview with Capital Tonight, she indicated that the success of three pilot programs in Monroe, Broome, and Duchess Counties will inform future decisions. These counties are set to receive a total of $20 million from this year’s state budget proposal to fund these programs.
The push for universal child care is significant, with an estimated $4.5 billion total cost, a portion of which will enhance existing child care subsidies. Advocates are hopeful that the pilot programs will yield valuable insights, paving the way for a broader rollout of universal child care to families across New York.
Today’s rally signifies more than just a political call to action; it represents the collective determination of parents and advocates who are fighting for a system that supports working families in dire need of affordable child care solutions. The urgency of their message resonates deeply as they seek immediate legislative support.
As the rally unfolds, all eyes are on Albany, where the future of child care policy in New York hangs in the balance. The developments from today’s gathering could shape the landscape of child care accessibility for countless families in the state. Stay tuned for updates as this crucial story continues to evolve.
