Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution expresses support for initiatives that improve access to high-quality, affordable child care for all families in Madison and directs that a copy of this resolution be sent to Governor Tony Evers and the Madison legislative delegation.No appropriation is required.
Title
Supporting initiatives that improve access to high-quality, affordable child care for all families in Madison
Body
WHEREAS, families in Madison rely on child care providers as an essential service for early learning, development, and social supports for children; and,
WHEREAS, the availability of high-quality child care options provides critical infrastructure that enables employment for working families; and,
WHEREAS, access to affordable child care is necessary for employers to build and retain a robust workforce and is an important component of supporting entrepreneurship, building capacity, and improving education in working-age adults; and,
WHEREAS, a May 2023 report from the Wisconsin Policy Forum highlights that the annual cost of child care in a licensed group center is more expensive than in-state tuition at any University of Wisconsin campus, and equates to up to 29% of the median household income for infant care, and 22% of median household income for care for a four-year-old; and,
WHEREAS, additionally, a study of 2021 child care rates by the non-profit Community Coordinated Child Care, Inc. showed that the median cost of child care for a two-year-old in Madison was $260 per week; for a family with a gross income of $90,000, this represents over 15% of their family income before taxes; and,
WHEREAS, an August 2023 survey from the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association found that 86% of program directors and owners already are or are considering raising parent fees, 47% of early educators are considering leaving the field, and 32% of programs are considering closing without further investment in the Child Care Counts program; and,
WHEREAS, th...
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