On the recordJune 30, 2020
Mr. President, I rise today to join Senator Murray and my Democratic colleagues in calling for substantial additional funding for childcare and education as our country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. In New Hampshire and across the country, this pandemic has turned families' lives upside-down. As classrooms shifted to living rooms, many parents have had to take on new roles, balancing teaching their children with their own day-to-day work. Other parents, including those who are on the frontlines of responding to this crisis, have had to figure out new childcare arrangements to ensure that their children are cared for while they go to work. Teachers and educators have had to adapt and find new, innovative ways to meet the needs of all students. With cases rising across this country, there is significant uncertainty facing families and educators who are trying to navigate what our systems of education and childcare are going to look like in the coming months. The legislation being offered by Senator Murray today would be a strong step forward in helping families and educators prepare for the road ahead, and, as with all preparation, timing matters. Delaying necessary actions doesn't address the new challenges educators and families face; it just makes it harder for them to get their jobs done.…





