In a move that could have significant ramifications for families across New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has put forth a proposal to establish a $110 million Child Care Construction Fund. This fund aims to address child care deserts by building new and renovating existing child care facilities, as detailed in an announcement reported by the official statement from the Governor's office. The proposed grants will be available to both non-profit and for-profit child care providers, including family child care programs, with a focus on creating safe and reliable child care options.
Alongside the construction fund, Governor Hochul is also looking to enhance staffing reliability through the establishment of a "substitute pool" of vetted professionals. The plan was crafted to help child care providers mitigate closures due to staff absences. "As a young mom, I had to leave a job I loved because we couldn't find child care. No parent in New York should be forced to make that choice," Governor Hochul said, according to the information from the announcement. "I pledged to invest a record-breaking $7 billion in child care because I know working families need the help."
The groundwork for universal child care in New York is set to be laid by the New York Coalition for Child Care, a group uniting business leaders, labor unions, and child care service providers. Governor Hochul’s proposals for this initiative signal an intent to expand child care assistance programs and seek sustainable solutions for broader accessibility. High costs and limited availability have long burdened families in New York, particularly those who do not qualify for income-based subsidies. Speaking to the urgency of the challenge, New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said to the Governor’s office, "Our collective efforts are making a profound difference in the lives of thousands of families."
Additional initiatives previously launched by Governor Hochul aim to reduce financial burdens on New York families, including raising the eligibility threshold for child care assistance and simplifying the application process through an online portal. To support child care providers, Governor Hochul has also advocated for higher reimbursement rates and incentives for those offering care during non-traditional work hours. Union leaders have expressed their support for these efforts, with AFSCME DC37 Executive Director Henry Garrido noting to the Governor’s office, "Many working families have the difficult decision between keeping a job they love, supporting their family and ensuring their child has the resources they need to succeed." These initiatives, along with Hochul’s Green CHIPS legislation requiring child care support from state-backed companies, aim to create a more robust and equitable child care system.
