Mark Takano: “I thank the gentleman from New York for his work. We are indeed friends. We both were teachers, Mr. Bowman a principal.…”

“I thank the gentleman from New York for his work. We are indeed friends. We both were teachers, Mr. Bowman a principal. We are educators at heart. To recover from one of the worst economic crises we have faced as a Nation, we must invest in families, our care economy, and our Nation's childcare. For most American families, quality childcare and preschool are unaffordable. In Riverside County, where my district, the 41st District of California, is located, it is unavailable. My district is a childcare desert. My constituents do not have childcare locations available, even if eligible, to help them care for their children while they attend school or work. It doesn't have to be this way, and it shouldn't be this way. In fact, we should use our path toward recovery as an opportunity to address the disparities communities like mine have been facing when it comes to affordable childcare options. The American Families Plan will secure universal access to preschool and will expand the supply of quality childcare options for all families. Studies have proven that quality preschool will positively impact children's cognitive, behavioral, and social-emotional development that is critical for their long-term success and mental health. If we are serious about investing in our children's education, we must provide universal preschool and affordable childcare for every child in need.…”