(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, applauded the passage of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2013 out of Committee. This legislation places a primary emphasis on promoting policies that will contribute to the healthy development of the more than 1.5 million children who benefit from the federal child care subsidy program, including 44,800 children in Washington state. The bill will now go to the full Senate for consideration.
“As a mom and former preschool teacher, I know how import high-quality child care options are for parents, and this bill works to ensure the best possible care,” said Senator Murray. “I am especially glad this bill includes new provisions to help more homeless families access child care. I’m also pleased that this legislation authorizes a national toll-free hotline and website for families seeking safe, affordable, quality child care in their community.”
Key enhancements in the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2013 will:
- Improve program quality, while simultaneously ensuring federal funds support low-income and at-risk children and families
- Address the nutritional and physical activity needs of children in child care settings
- Strengthen coordination and alignment to contribute to a more comprehensive early childhood education and care system
- Meet the needs of children with disabilities who require child care
- Promote continuity of care to minimize disruption in children’s development
- Safeguard the health and safety of children
More about the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 2013.
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