Winifred Smith-Jenkins, the Director of Early Learning for Policy and Advocacy at Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ), presented testimony to the Senate Budget Committee urging the full funding of the Division of Family Development's (DFD) budget for Fiscal Year 2026. This testimony was delivered on April 10, 2025, addressing Chairman Sarlo and Senate members.
Smith-Jenkins highlighted the ongoing commitment of the Administration and the Legislature toward supporting children and families through investments in services like state child tax credits, NJ Family Care, pre-K to 12th grade education funding, food security programs, and maternal health services. Despite these efforts, she emphasized the need for strategic investment in the DFD's Child Care Assistance Program, particularly as it supports working families with children aged 0 to 13.
New Jersey's child care sector faces a significant workforce shortage, keeping care provision below pre-pandemic levels, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2024. This workforce challenge leads to closed classrooms, families on waitlists, increased absenteeism, and reduced productivity across industries, which affects the state's economy.
The New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program, described as vital for low-income families, currently provides subsidies to 70,000 children. However, as eligibility increases and service demands grow, the program is under significant pressure. Seasonal enrollment spikes and potential new federal Medicaid work requirements may exacerbate this situation.
Smith-Jenkins drew attention to new federal regulations requiring upfront payments to child care providers starting in 2026, a move aimed at stabilizing the industry. Implementing this change will require precise planning and adequate funding. A $20 million budget shortfall could lead to fewer children receiving services, parents being unable to work, and increased pressure on providers.
"The solution is straightforward: fully fund DFD’s budget," Smith-Jenkins stated, suggesting that budget decisions reflect societal values. Full funding, she argued, would preserve access to care and education, support compliance with federal standards, and stabilize an essential system for New Jersey's future.
Smith-Jenkins concluded by thanking the Committee for its ongoing commitment to New Jersey's children and families.
