In the near future, we will reintroduce legislation to establish the Child-Care Workforce Commission. As we all recognize the vital role that child care plays in the lives of our constituents and well-being of our communities, it is imperative that we address the challenges faced by the child-care workforce.

Child care is an essential service that supports working families, fosters early childhood development, and drives economic growth.  However, the industry has long faced significant issues, including low wages, high turnover rates, and limited access to professional development opportunities. These challenges not only affect the child-care workforce but also directly impact the quality and availability of child-care services across our Commonwealth.

The Child-Care Workforce Commission will serve as a dedicated body to study, evaluate, and recommend policies to address the needs of the child-care workforce in Pennsylvania. The commission will include experts, stakeholders, and representatives from relevant state agencies, child-care providers, and early childhood education institutions. It will conduct a comprehensive review of the current state of the child-care workforce and develop strategies to improve recruitment, retention, and professional development opportunities.

By establishing the Child-Care Workforce Commission, we will take meaningful steps to improve the working conditions and professional opportunities for child-care providers. In doing so, we will support our children’s growth and development and promote economic stability for working families across Pennsylvania.
 
This legislation was previously Senate Bill 1110 in the 2023-24 Session and was co-sponsored by Senators Pennycuick, J. Ward, Schwank, Aument, Miller, and Brown.

We hope you will join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the child-care sector and ensure a strong foundation for future generations.  

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Jeffrey Ivicic (Senator Stefano’s office) at jivicic@pasen.gov or Erin Marsicano (Senator Culver’s office) at emarsicano@pasen.gov.