MADISON – Last night, the Republican-led Joint Committee on Finance was in session voting on budget items, including the Child Care Counts program. Representative Joers released the following statement:
“Last night, Legislative Republicans decided not to prioritize our children. Providing $340 million to sustain our Child Care Counts program was the bare minimum to keep the industry afloat. We need to take care of our children first, after all they are our future. As a legislator, I have continued to advocate for a comprehensive solution that includes support for children, caregivers, early educators, and families.
“I proudly supported Governor Evers’ original budget providing $340 million for the Child Care Counts Program. The Republican’s decision to completely cut this program directly impacts our children’s ability to thrive and will have devastating effects on our childcare community. After reviewing survey data from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, it illuminated that more than 60% of childcare centers are facing staffing shortages and that nearly 80% of childcare professionals are experiencing burnout. In addition, the cost of childcare continues to rise and wages have stagnated for Wisconsin families.
“I am infuriated in the Republican’s decision to cut funding so vital for our future.”
