Political Quotes

“we know it is well past time--and that is an understatement--to take up the reauthorization of this important legislation, the Child Care and Development Block Grant Program, which has not been reauthorized since 1996. It is hard to comprehend that, but that is true. In the nearly two decades since, our understanding of early childhood development and the importance of high-quality childcare in early learning has expanded dramatically. Investing in high-quality early learning opportunities, such as childcare and prekindergarten, sets children on the path to success. I like to say if children learn more now, they will earn more later, and that is why there is a direct nexus with the quality of the childcare we provide. The quality of early learning connects directly with our economic growth. Our gross domestic product--our future economic growth and success as a country--is substantially dependent on the quality of early learning and the quality of childcare. It is good we are focused in a bipartisan way on the childcare aspects of this challenge. We must update the Federal standards that relate to childcare to ensure that the Federal Government is supporting high-quality childcare--not just any quality childcare--for low-income children. The bill we are considering sets a new standard for childcare in America.…”