Free Child Care for All

Child care is the backbone of a strong economy, not just a family issue. In California, families are currently spending between 8% and 21% of their household income on child care. Researchers estimate that if parents – predominantly mothers – were able to rejoin the workforce, we could put more than $23 billion back into our economy. As a single mom of three I understand the challenges families face, and I will deliver free child care for all.

To achieve this, first we need to simplify the process. The current system is overly complicated, with 14 different funding sources and excessive hurdles for both providers and families to determine eligibility for subsidized care. I will create a one-stop-shop that simplifies everything – a single, online form for providers to receive payment and for families to easily find the care that meets their needs.

We also need to grow our child care workforce. The best way to expand access to care is by ensuring we have a robust workforce. This means paying providers more. New Mexico successfully raised child care wages by 65% in five years, enabling them to deliver care to every child in the state. We must increase provider wages. Additionally, we should provide low-interest loans for child care workers who want to start their own businesses and offer tax credits to employers who provide child care options for their employees. Every family has different care needs and my plan lets families choose what is right for them — free of charge.