Child care advocates in New York say the state is slipping backward after a disappointing legislative session, according to Spectrum News 1. Despite a $400 million boost for child care vouchers—$350 million for New York City and $50 million upstate—some counties are still freezing enrollment or building waitlists.
Experts argue the funding is a temporary fix, not a long-term solution, and warn that counties may hesitate to expand services without future guarantees. Policy analyst Dede Hill noted over 15 counties remain restricted despite the aid arriving late in the year.
Lawmakers are now leaning on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s new coalition to map out permanent funding solutions. Assemblymember Sarah Clark said failure to create a sustainable plan could jeopardize essential care for thousands of families.
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