WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04), Ranking Member of the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee, and Rep. Ashley Hinson (IA-01) introduced The Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Reauthorization Act of 2022, legislation to renew a historically bipartisan program that has supported affordable child care options for hardworking American families since 1990.
“The cost of child care is skyrocketing, and the sticker shock is a roadblock for parents across America as they work to earn a living, get an education, and make ends meet,” said Rep. Owens. “For the past 30 years, the bipartisan Child Care Development Block Grant has delivered flexible, affordable, and trusted child care options at low or no cost to millions of hardworking families. The work to improve educational opportunities and outcomes begins with ensuring that every parent has the ability to choose the child care option that meets the unique needs of their family, and I am proud to join Congresswoman Hinson to lead the program’s reauthorization.”
“Access to affordable child care, especially for families in rural communities, is a top concern for Iowans,” said Rep. Hinson. “I’ve visited child care centers in our district with waiting lists of over 100 kids — parents shouldn’t have to choose between working and taking care of their children, but many are currently faced with that impossible and stressful decision. This legislation will help ensure families have access to child care so that they can more comfortably live, work, and raise a family in Iowa.”
Background:
The Child Care and Development Block Grant Act (CCDBG) authorizes the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program, which is administered by states, territories, and tribes and provides financial assistance for working families to access affordable child care so they can earn a living or attend school. States can also use CCDF dollars to invest in improving overall quality and supply of child care, and expand options so that parents can choose the programs that best meets their family’s needs.
The full text of the legislation is available here.
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