Senate Resolution No. ___, introduced by Senator Edmonds, commends the Ready Louisiana Coalition, a bipartisan organization established in 2018 that consists of over 160 businesses, advocacy groups, and early education professionals. The coalition advocates for increased investment in quality, affordable early care and education in Louisiana, emphasizing the critical role that early childhood experiences play in brain development and future success. Research indicates that 90% of brain development occurs between birth and age four, and access to quality early education can lead to improved long-term outcomes in education, health, and social behaviors.

The resolution highlights the economic implications of inadequate early care and education, noting that families often spend as much on child care as they would on in-state college tuition, which significantly impacts their budgets. Furthermore, the lack of affordable options disproportionately affects children of color and those in poverty, while also hindering workforce participation and productivity in Louisiana. The resolution designates May 21, 2024, as Early Education Day at the state capitol to raise awareness of these issues and recognizes the coalition's efforts to enhance access to early education, ultimately benefiting families and the state's economy.