State Lawmakers Call for Overhaul of U.S. Childcare System at NCSL Summit
A bipartisan group of state lawmakers is advocating for significant reforms to the U.S. childcare system, which they argue is failing children, parents, and providers. During the National Conference of State Legislatures summit, lawmakers discussed the high costs and limited access to childcare, which often surpasses the cost of in-state college tuition in many states. The group proposed policy recommendations, including increased private sector involvement, higher pay for providers, and updated regulations. The discussion highlighted New Mexico's recent implementation of a universal childcare system, though challenges remain in ensuring universal access.