Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ) have expressed strong support for Assembly Bill 2291, which seeks to expand child care assistance to all full-time child care workers. The testimony was delivered by Winifred Smith-Jenkins, Director of Early Learning for Policy and Advocacy, and Cindy Shields, Senior Policy Analyst for Early Childhood at ACNJ.
In their statement, they emphasized the critical role that child care plays in the economy. They noted that New Jersey's child care system is currently facing significant challenges. Providers are struggling financially, and many child care workers are leaving the profession due to low wages. This situation leaves families on long waitlists or forces them out of the workforce due to a lack of affordable early education options.
The testimony highlighted that only 859 out of nearly 26,000 child care workers in New Jersey qualify for child care assistance. This situation compels many professionals to make difficult choices, often resulting in them leaving the field entirely.
"When child care workers cannot afford child care, the entire economy suffers," they stated. The bill aims to address these issues by providing financial support to all full-time child care workers, thereby stabilizing the workforce and reducing turnover.
They pointed out that other states like Kentucky, Washington, and Massachusetts have already implemented similar measures with positive outcomes. "Child care is not just a service—it is the foundation of our economy," they asserted.
ACNJ stressed the importance of fully funding the Department of Human Services (DHS) as a priority to prevent negative impacts on providers and families. They urged lawmakers to pass Bill A2291 and recognize the essential role of child care workers in sustaining the economy.
"I urge you to pass this bill and recognize child care workers for what they are: the backbone of our workforce," concluded their testimony.
