The Joint Democratic Caucus urges the immediate release of the federal COVID relief funds for child care businesses by the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee.
Sen. Grant Burgoyne
Idaho’s child care professionals keep our economy running, helping parents and caregivers enter and stay in the workforce, which is more crucial than ever. If we do not provide meaningful support now, the child care industry will not survive. Providers have already struggled to bounce back from the pandemic and that will only continue without the federal funds, potentially leading many to close their doors if adequate resources aren’t provided. We cannot allow that to happen.
On April 6, Gov. Brad Little recommended $96 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to go toward child care. Despite this, it appears the JFAC co-chairs do not intend to take action on these funds and others before the Idaho Legislature recesses or adjourns. This is unacceptable.
“Child care is the backbone of our economy. Without it, parents cannot work and businesses cannot hire the employees they need. We have released COVID relief funding for a variety of industries. It is unconscionable to hold back funds for child care providers,” Asst. Senate Democratic Leader Grant Burgoyne said. “Release of the funds will help keep child care costs down and help accessibility directly benefiting Idaho families, as well as the businesses that parents work for.”
Rep. Lauren Necochea
There is also pending legislation, Senate Bill 1212, to cut off federal aid to child care providers in December 2021, despite federal guidelines allowing this money to be spent through 2024.
“Child care providers are small businesses that face narrow profit margins in good times. The pandemic has stretched them to the breaking point,” Asst. House Democratic Leader Lauren Necochea added. “If we do not support them, these vital businesses could shutter, leaving families, employers, and communities at a major loss.”