The bill establishes the New Jersey Blue Ribbon Commission on Child Care within the Department of Children and Families, consisting of 13 members, including various state commissioners and public members appointed by the Governor. The commission's purpose is to develop a comprehensive, statewide strategy aimed at strengthening and stabilizing the child care system in New Jersey. It will conduct a thorough review of the state's child care services, assess challenges and opportunities for reform, and create actionable policy and funding recommendations.
The commission's examination will cover several key areas, including access to child care, affordability, workforce compensation, and existing funding structures. It will also focus on developing a sustainable framework for coordination among stakeholders, outlining initiatives to support equitable and high-quality child care, and recommending statutory and regulatory reforms. The commission is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature within 12 months of its organization.