For most American families living in the modern world, child care is a necessity. More than 75% of all single mothers, and 66% of all mothers with infants under age 6, are now employed. Child care expenses for these families often exceed $8,000/year. Nearly 5 million American preschoolers currently spend most of their waking day in childcare centers. These children come from diverse homes and bring with them a wide range of needs. Half of America’s children live in single parent families, one third of our children are poor, and one child in twelve struggles with a disability. Although quality childcare is often difficult to find, experts say it is vital to the well-being of our nation's kids. Unfortunately, the shortage of quality child care prevents many children from receiving this much-needed necessity. Federally-funded Head start programs are able to enroll only about 42% of children who are eligible. Advocates say we need more quality childcare centers staffed with better-trained and better-paid childcare providers.

Pending Legislation: H.R.540 - Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act of 2021
Sponsor: Rep. Josh Harder (CA)
Status: House Committee on Education and Labor
Chair: Rep. Bobby Scott (VA)