Senate Resolution No. by Senator Edmonds commends the Ready Louisiana Coalition, a bipartisan organization established in 2018, which consists of over 160 businesses, chambers, advocacy groups, and early care and education professionals. The Coalition advocates for increased investment in quality, affordable early care and education in Louisiana, emphasizing its importance for preparing children for future success, supporting families in the workforce, and driving economic growth in local communities. Research indicates that early childhood experiences significantly influence brain development and long-term outcomes in education, health, and social behavior, making access to quality early education crucial, especially for children of color and those in poverty.

The resolution designates May 21, 2024, as Early Education Day at the state capitol to highlight the Coalition's efforts and the critical need for quality early care and education in Louisiana. It notes that the financial burden of child care can be comparable to in-state college tuition for families, and the lack of affordable options has detrimental effects on both current workforce participation and future economic productivity. The resolution underscores the potential for a 13% return on public investment in early education and the significant economic losses incurred due to child care challenges, amounting to over $1.3 billion for Louisiana's economy. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the Ready Louisiana Coalition to acknowledge their work.