UPDATE: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has just announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming child care in the state, with a massive investment of $4.5 billion planned for fiscal year 2027. This urgent move is set to ease the financial burden on families, potentially saving them billions annually.
For parents like Kirpaul and Jeanne Babar, who spend approximately $1,600 per month on day care for their two children, this announcement could be a game-changer. “Cost-wise, for one kid, it’s about $20,000 a year for day care,” Kirpaul explained. “For us, that’s more than our monthly mortgage payment.” With the staggering costs, the Babars support universal child care, believing it could allow them to expand their family. “I think if we didn’t have to pay for day care, we would have had more kids,” he said.
Hochul’s plan aims to provide affordable child care for nearly 100,000 additional children across New York. Key elements of the proposal include making pre-K universal statewide, aiding counties in developing affordable child care models, and expanding subsidies to tens of thousands more families.
However, the plan faces skepticism from some quarters. Republicans, including Assemblyman Ed Ra (R–Franklin Square), raise concerns about the financial feasibility of the proposed $1.7 billion increase. “The question comes down to the dollars,” Ra stated, emphasizing the need for clarity on how these investments fit into the state’s financial framework.
Advocates, such as New Yorkers United for Child Care and the Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, stress that while these investments are crucial, they must also include increased pay for child care providers. “We have a real workforce shortage, and if they’re not being paid well, they’re not going to want to do the work,” said Rebecca Bailin, executive director of New Yorkers United for Child Care. Current wages hover around $37,000 a year, which many consider close to poverty levels.
In a focused effort for New York City, Hochul is collaborating with Mayor Zohran Mamdani to introduce a new 2-Care program while ensuring universal access to 3K education within the city.
This proposal is not just a financial plan; it’s a lifeline for thousands of families grappling with the high costs of child care. As discussions continue, many are eager to see how these developments unfold in the coming days.
New York families are watching closely as this initiative could redefine child care accessibility, bringing hope to parents burdened by exorbitant day care costs. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
